Post on 19-May-2018
2017
NEBRASKA STATE FAIR
FFA Entry Information and Award List
OFFICE ADDRESS OFFICE MAILING ADDRESS
Nebraska State Fair Nebraska State Fair
501 East Fonner Rd PO Box 1387
Grand Island, Nebraska 68803 Grand Island, Nebraska 68802
308 382 1620 308 382 1620
2 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
FFA General Superintendent
Ryan Hassebrook
2192 W. Mill Rd
Raymond, NE 68428
402-641-0483
ryan.hassebrook@gmail.com
FFA Assistant Superintendent
Kent Zeller
PO Box 171, Ravenna, NE 68869
308 216 0766 (cell)
kentezeller@gmail.com
2017
SUPERINTENDENTS
Dairy .................................................................................................................................. Don Esau
Beef ..................................................................................................................... Bruce Hassebrook
Swine.................................................................................................................................. DJ Mottl
Goats .................................................................................................................... Kelly Guggenmos
Sheep ............................................................................................................................. Don Wallace
Agricultural Mechanics ................................................................................................... Dan Zabel
Crops--Range Boards ...................................................................................................... Lloyd Otto
Horticulture ................................................................................................................ Jackie Ropers
Herdsmanship .................................................................................. Krynn Pekny and Kevin Turek
Technology…………………………………………………………………………….Shane Pekny
The purposes of the Nebraska FFA Board of Directors shall be to recommend operational policy for
the FFA Division, Nebraska State Fair and carry forth those responsibilities as prescribed in the FFA
Premium Catalogue.
3 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FFA STATE FAIR IMPORTANT DATES…………………………………………...4
FFA ENTRY DATE, PAYMENT OF FEES, WEBSITE INFORMATION… ……....5
SCHEDULE…………………………………………………………………………...6
NEBRASKA STATE FAIR WEBSITE INFORMATION……………………………8
GENERAL INFORMATION
GENERAL RULES AND REGULATIONS
CHECKIN FOR ALL LIVESTOCK EXHIBITORS (EXCEPT EQUINE)
LIVESTOCK/HORSE/POULTRY/PIDGEONS ENTRY INFORMATION
See FFA entry information page 5
ONLINE ENTRY GUIDELINES
See FFA online guidelines on page 5
DEPARTMENT OF AG – ELITE SHOWMANSHIP
STATE FAIR GENERAL LIVESTOCK INFORMATION, RULES & REGULATIONS .…9
FFA SPECIFIC FFA RULES ………………………………………………………...27
FFA MEMBERSHIP……………………………………………………………….…29
BREEDING LIVESTOCK AGE BREAKS………………………………..…………30
LOT 2 – BEEF CATTLE…………………………………………………….…...…...31
LOT 3 – SWINE…………………………………………………………….…..…….39
LOT 4 – SHEEP ………...……………………………………………………….……44
LOT 5—GOATS ……………………………………………………………………...48
LOT 6 – AGRICULTURAL MECHANICS……………………….…….…..…........ .51
LOT 7 – CROPS AND RANGE BOARDS……………………………………….… .53
LOT 8 – HORTICULTURE AND APICULTURE…………………………………...55
DEPARTMENT 35 – YOUTH DAIRY SHOW……………..…Refer to Nebraska State Fair
4 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
STATE FAIR IMPORTANT DATES
1. April 15 – All FFA market beef must have electronic identification tags in place
and DNA samples collected. DNA collector envelopes should be mailed to
AKSARBEN.
2. June 15 – All livestock shall be the property of the exhibitor and a part of the
FFA member’s SAE Program except for market beef, which shall be April 15
3. June 15 – All beef (except market beef which is April 15), dairy, sheep, goats,
and swine must have the correct identification in place and DNA samples
(market animals) and breeding nomination cards (breeding animals and feeder
calves) collected. DNA collector envelopes and breeding nomination cards
should be mailed to AKSARBEN
4. August 10, 5 p.m. – Online registration due for Nebraska State Fair livestock
entries (includes chapter t-shirt order, FFA tags also)
5. August 21, 5 p.m.—On-line registration due for Nebraska State Fair static
exhibits
6. August 25 or before – Nebraska FFA Youth Livestock Quality Assurance
Certification Form due to General Superintendent
7. August 25 or before – PQA forms due to General Superintendent
8. State Fair Check In – FFA Livestock Ethics Form and Statement of disclosure
due to the Species Superintendent.
9. September 30 of the same fair year – swine carcass complaints, errors, or
omissions
10. Postmarked October 31 – $25 FFA Chapter entry fee and payment for tag
orders due to General Superintendent
11. October 31 of the same fair year – All complaints, errors, omissions must be
filed with the General Superintendent
5 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
2017 FFA STATE FAIR ENTRY DEADLINE:
LIVESTOCK: AUGUST 10, 2017 at 5 p.m.
STATIC EXHIBITS: AUGUST 21, 2017 ALL FFA ENTRIES WILL BE COMPLETED BY THE INDIVIDUAL
FFA EXHIBITOR THROUGH SHOWWORKS. ENTRY FEES WILL BE
PAID AT THE TIME OF ENTRY
ALL SCHOOLS WITH STUDENTS EXHIBITING AT STATE
FAIR WILL PAY A $25 ADMINISTRATIVE FEE. ONLY
SCHOOL CHECKS WILL BE ACCEPTED. CHECKS SHOULD BE
MADE PAYABLE TO THE NEBRASKA FFA FOUNDATION –
NEBRASKA STATE FAIR ACCOUNT. SCHOOLS WILL
RECEIVE AN INVOICE.
ONLY ONLINE ENTRIES WILL BE ACCEPTED. ENTRIES
MUST BE MADE BY THE FFA EXHIBITOR BEFORE 5 p.m.,
AUGUST 10, 2017 FOR LIVESTOCK AND 5 p.m., AUGUST
21, 2017 FOR STATIC EXHIBITS. THERE IS NO LATE
REGISTRATION FOR FFA LIVESTOCK. THERE ARE NO
CANCELLATIONS OR REFUNDS.
NEBRASKA STATE FAIR FFA WEB SITES:
http://www.neaged.org/ffa-state-fair.html
http://www.statefair.org/p/getinvolved/270 AN ONLINE RECEIPT MAY BE PRINTED WHEN YOU MAKE
ENTRIES.
6 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
2017 NEBRASKA STATE FAIR FFA SCHEDULE NOTE: The following schedule is tentative. Please consult the state fair Web site
for the most up to date version. http://www.statefair.org/p/getinvolved/270
Also note Parade of Champions and champion animal selections times.
FFA EXHIBIT MUST BE IN (except Dairy)…………………………..Saturday, September 2
ALL FFA LIVESTOCK MUST BE IN PLACE ……………..………………….9:30 A.M.
AG MECH, CROPS, RANGE BOARDS, HORT, & APICULTURE …………1:00 P.M.
Dept 35 - Youth Dairy Show (FFA and 4-H) Go to Nebraska State Fair site
LOT 2 – BEEF CATTLE
Market Beef and Feeder Calf Weigh-In .................................................................................................
Breeding Beef Check-In .............................................................. Friday, September 1, 7:00-9:00 p.m.
................................................................................................. Saturday, September 2, 7:30-9:00 a.m.
Beef Showmanship ......................................................................... Saturday, September 2, 11:30 a.m.
Breeding Beef Show .......................................................... Saturday, September 2 after showmanship
Feeder Calf Show ..................................................................................... Sunday, September 3, 8 a.m.
Market Beef Show ........................................................ Sunday, September 3, after Feeder Calf Show
Parade of Champions and Champion Selection ....................................... Sunday, September 3, 4 p.m.
Beef released……………………………………..…………….........…Monday, September 4, 10 a.m.
LOT 3 – SWINE
Market Swine Weigh-In .............................................................. Friday, September 1, 7:00 -9:00 p.m.
......................................................................................... Saturday, September 2, 7:30 a.m.- 9:30 a.m.
Breeding Swine Must be in ............................................................... Saturday, September 2, 9:30 a.m.
Breeding Swine Show ......................................................................... Sunday, September 3, 8:00 a.m.
Swine Showmanship ......................................................... Sunday, September 3, after Breeding Gilts.
Market Swine Show………………………………………Sunday, September 3, after Showmanship
Parade of Champions and Champion Selection ....................................... Sunday, September 3, 4 p.m.
Breeding Swine released………………………………..…………Monday, September 4, 10:00 a.m.
Market Swine load-out………………………………………….……....Monday, September 4, TBA
LOT 4 – SHEEP
Sheep Must be in………………………...………….……………….Saturday, September 2, 9:30 a.m.
Sheep Check-In and Weigh-In………………………………………….Saturday, September 2, 1 p.m.
Sheep Showmanship……………………………….……….....…..…Sunday, September 3, 5:30 p.m.
Breeding Sheep Show…….…………….............………………………Monday, September 4, 8 a.m.
Market Lamb Show……................................................ ..Monday, September 4, after breeding sheep
Sheep released………………………….……………………....…..….Monday, September 4, 10 a.m.
Parade of Champions and Champion Selection ..................................... Monday, September 4, 4 p.m.
7 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
LOT 5—GOATS
Goats Must be in…………………………………………………….Saturday, September 2, 9:30 a.m.
Breeding and Market Goats Check-In and Weigh-………………....…Saturday, September 2, 11 a.m.
Breeding Meat Goat Show…..…...…………………………..........…….Sunday, September 3, 10 a.m.
Goat Showmanship …………...………..…….Sunday, September 3 after Breeding Meat Goat Show
Market Goat Show…..………….…....………………….…Sunday, September 3, after Showmanship
Parade of Champions and Champion Selection ....................................... Sunday, September 3, 4 p.m.
Goats released…..………………………………..…………....…..….Monday, September 4, 10 a.m.
LOT 6 – AG MECHANICS
Agricultural Mechanics Must be in.................................................. Saturday, September 2, 1:00 p.m.
LOT 7 – CROPS AND RANGE BOARDS
Crops and Range Boards Must be in.………………………………Saturday, September 2, 1:00 p.m.
LOT 8 – HORTICULTURE AND APICULTURE
Horticulture and Apiculture Must be in…………………………….Saturday, September 2, 1:00 p.m.
Ag Mech, Crops, Range Boards, Horticulture exhibits released…….Monday, September 4, 3:00 p.m.
8 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
NEBRASKA STATE FAIR WEB SITE INFORMATION
For specific information regarding the fair, visit the Nebraska State
Fair Website at: www.statefair.org. From there, click on Entry
Books/Forms, and click on livestock.
The web site contains general information about attending the fair as
well as general rules and regulations governing all livestock exhibitors
at the fair. There will also be information covering fair entry, check in
time for livestock exhibits and Department of Ag-Elite Showmanship.
Check the website frequently as the fair approaches. It will contain a
number of updates about, check-in times, parking, gate passes, etc.
9 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
NEBRASKA STATE FAIR 2017 GENERAL LIVESTOCK INFORMATION,
RULES & REGULATIONS
GENERAL INFORMATION
WELCOME: The Nebraska State Fair Board welcomes you to the 148th Nebraska State Fair, held at
the Nebraska State Fairgrounds on Fonner Park. We encourage your participation in the 2017
competitions. The State Fair Management Team is pleased to host you and your exhibits at the Fair
while you enjoy your stay in Grand Island.
MISSION STATEMENT: The Nebraska State Fair: The nation’s most innovative exhibition focusing
on interactive agriculture and educational experiences promoting families, fun and Nebraska Pride.
COMPETITION: Competition is open to the world except where otherwise specified.
AGREEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY: At no time will the Nebraska State Fair assume care,
custody or control of any animals and/or personal property of any exhibitor, except following the
selection of the Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion 4-H and FFA Market animals. The
Nebraska State Fair will assume control of these animals through the use of security guards once they
are placed in Champion Row until the Parade of Champions, at which time the exhibitor will lead their
animal out for the Parade. Exhibitors will be allowed to only feed their animals while on Champion
Row. Otherwise, exhibitors will have full custody and control, and will care for, feed and keep safe
their animals, livestock and personal property, all in accordance with the rules and regulations of the
Nebraska State Fair and Show Management.
NEBRASKA STATE FAIR COURTESY STATEMENT: In any barn where different species are
present at the same time, the Nebraska State Fair expects that all exhibitors will extend courtesy to
other exhibitors and their animal exhibits. This includes respect for designated areas, informational
signage and division barriers. Any questions regarding this should be referred to the Superintendent
of your show.
PARKING: Purchasing a parking permit is optional, however exhibitors wishing to park in designated
livestock parking areas will require a permit to enter. This permit may be purchased on the entry form
($25 for exhibitors) or at the Livestock Check-In Trailer and is for the sole use of the exhibitor.
PARKING PERMITS MUST BE SECURELY ATTACHED TO THE WINDSHIELD OF THE
VEHICLE. It is recommended that livestock exhibitor vehicles park in places designated by the Fair
Management. The Fair Management assumes no obligation and no liability for any theft or damage
that may occur to the vehicle or its contents. No vehicles will be allowed to park for the sole purpose
of advertising. All trucks ½ ton or larger and livestock trailers will be required, immediately after
unloading, to park in designated areas. Trailers will be parked in the Brunks Lot, which is located
south of the Fairgrounds or in the Luebbe East Lot, which is located on Stuhr Road east of the
Fairgrounds.
FIRE REGULATIONS: No smoking in any buildings or barns. No flammable liquids will be allowed
in any buildings.
ALCOHOL ABUSE: To safeguard exhibitors, livestock and the public, the State of Nebraska Rules
on Alcohol Use and Abuse will be enforced. Excessive use of alcohol will not be tolerated. No one
under the age of 21 is permitted to drink alcoholic beverages. Security and the State Patrol may be
called if necessary.
10 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
AUXILIARY VEHICLES: Auxiliary vehicles (AV’s) such as golf carts, service carts, utility vehicles,
and other four wheelers will require a permit for operation on the Nebraska State Fairgrounds, including
parking areas, the campground and other perimeter streets. This permit is available from the Fonner
Park Box Office, located in the Heartland Event Center, for a fee of $200 for the term. This permit is
required during move-in and during the Fair, No AV’s will be allowed in any Nebraska State Fair
buildings at any time prior to or during the Fair. In order to obtain a permit, the owner and driver of
the vehicle must have a valid driver’s license and provide proof of insurance for the vehicle; naming
the Nebraska State Fair, Fonner Park Exposition and Events Center, Inc., the Hall County Livestock
Improvement Association and the city of Grand Island as additional insured’s. In addition, any person
purchasing a permit, will be required to sign and abide by the Nebraska State Fair Auxiliary Rules and
Regulations and attend a 3 minute safety video at the Double Locked Security Office or the Heartland
Event Center Ticket Office, both are located on the fairgrounds. Auxiliary vehicles without a permit
will not be allowed on the grounds at any time during the Fair. AV’s will not be allowed in the Core
Area after 9:30 a.m. any day. NO motorized vehicles resembling any high-powered motorized sports
vehicle are allowed on the Nebraska State Fairgrounds. A map showing the route for auxiliary vehicles
will be provided upon payment and signature for a permit. Some AV’s may be denied a permit based
on size (no AV’s over 52” will be allowed).
CERTIFICATE OF INSURANCE REQUIRED: All parties utilizing their own golf carts or ATV’s
must provide a “Certificate of Insurance” evidencing liability insurance on the golf cart or ATV with a
liability limit of no less than $300,000 for injuries to others or damage to the property of others. See
Auxiliary Vehicle policy above.
FEED AND BEDDING: All Feed and Bedding needs will be handled by Mid Nebraska Feeds,
which is the local Purina dealer. Hay, bedding and/or feed will be available. The first bedding will
be provided for exhibitors in the Cattle Barn. Bulk bedding will be provided in the tie-out area. A
$15.00 per head bedding fee will be charged as part of the entry fee, for beef and dairy cattle. A $5.00
per head bedding fee will be charged as part of the entry fee for sheep, goat and swine. Exhibitors will
be permitted to bring onto the grounds a limited amount of feed, hay or straw. You can pre-order feed
and additional bedding by contacting Mid Nebraska Feeds at 308-382-3048.
CHECK-IN TRAILER HOURS: The Livestock Check-In Trailer will open daily at 6:00 am unless
otherwise designated. Hours of operation will be posted. Please check the State Fair website prior to
your arrival.
LOTTERY: No lottery or raffle shall be conducted at the Nebraska State Fair without the written
authority of the Nebraska State Fair Board.
CAMPGROUND: All campers are required to stop at the Campground office, pay the camping
charges in advance, and receive a lot location assignment. Upon payment of camping charges,
campground stickers will be furnished for cars. All vehicles that do not fit on the camping pad will be
required to pay $3 per night for the vehicle. The Campground Area is fenced with a permanent fence,
and a Campground Manager is on duty at all times. The Manager will assign camping locations and
will maintain a Campground directory.
CAMPGROUND FEES (PER DAY)
Campers & Trailers (full hook-up, all services & pad parking)……………….. $33
Autos (without trailers/campers)…………………………………..…………… $3
Check In: 12:00 noon – Check Out: 10:00 am
Campers left after 10:00 am will be charged an additional day at the regular daily rate.
11 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
NALSRMA: The Nebraska State Fair is a member of the North American Livestock Show and Rodeo
Managers’ Association, whose membership has approved the adoption of The IAFE National Show
Ring Code of Ethics. Exhibitors are bound to abide by this Code.
DOGS: Due to requirements of the liability insurance carrier and policy of all major livestock shows,
NO dogs are allowed on the Nebraska State Fairgrounds, in parking lots or in buildings other than those
for direct competition or service animals. All dogs must be on a leash. There shall be no loose or
unattended dogs on the fairgrounds. No dogs will be permitted in the animal barns, in tie outs or on
the Midway, except during authorized events and sanctioned dog shows. Dogs entered in Nebraska
State Fair special performances or competitive events will be allowed on grounds or in buildings during
performance or competition only.
SOLICITATION: All advertising and/or distribution of advertising materials, tracts, pamphlets, etc.
must be confined to a leased location. No roving solicitation is allowed on the Nebraska State
Fairgrounds.
BADGE/TICKET POLICY: Livestock exhibitor badges may be purchased on the entry form for the
cost of $25.00. This badge will allow entrance to the fairgrounds for the duration of the Fair. 4H and
FFA exhibitors will receive one (1) free exhibitor badge with their entry. If badge is lost, you will be
required to purchase a replacement. These badges are for the sole use of the exhibitor.
Discounted daily admission tickets are available ONLY to exhibitors for $5.00 per person per day.
These must also be purchased on the entry form. A maximum of 20 tickets per household for the sole
use of the household are allowed. There will be no refunds for excess tickets ordered or unused tickets.
Additional badges or discount tickets may be purchased upon arrival at the Check-In Trailer. All
badges, discount tickets, parking passes, etc., will be available for pick up at the Check-In Trailer upon
arrival at the Fair. Note that general admission is reduced to $2.00 on Tuesday, August 29 and $3.00
on Thursday, August 31. You may purchase these tickets at the gate to be used only on those days.
These tickets are not available at the Check-In trailers.
Non-exhibitor ticket prices per day:
Adults (August 25-27, September 1-4) $12.00
Monday, August 28 and Wednesday, August 30 $5.00
Tuesday, August 29 $2.00
Thursday, August 31 $3.00
Advance sale Adult tickets, through August 24 $9.00
Children, 6 to 12 years of age $3.00
Children, 5 years and under Free
Re-admission to the grounds on the same calendar day for those purchasing daily admission tickets is
offered via a hand stamp at all exit gates. NO REFUNDS will be given on any admission ticket. Those
with badges will not need a hand stamp.
THE PRESS: News media services for obtaining reports of judges, awards, daily programs, special
orders and announcements, official decisions and all Nebraska State Fair matters of interest or value to
the public are available through the Nebraska State Fair website: www.statefair.org.
MAILING ADDRESS: Parties wishing to have mail sent to them while in attendance at the Fair for
the duration may have it addressed to them in care of the Department in which they are participating:
Name of Person and Department for FedEx, UPS, etc. deliveries:
Name of Person and Company
c/o Nebraska State Fair c/o Nebraska State Fair
P.O. Box 1387 501 E. Fonner Park Road, Suite 200
Grand Island, NE 68802 Grand Island, NE 68801
12 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
GENERAL LIVESTOCK RULES & REGULATIONS
1. GENERAL INFORMATION: The following General Rules & Regulations apply to all
departments including Open Class, 4-H and FFA. Please refer to each department for specific rules
and requirements. Exhibitors are required to read ALL rules and regulations which pertain to the
division they are entering. In the event of conflict of general and specific rules, the latter will govern.
It is the responsibility of each exhibitor to be familiar with all applicable Rules & Regulations.
2. INTERPRETATION OF RULES AND DISPUTES: The Nebraska State Fair Management
reserves to its Board the final and absolute right to interpret, amend or add to these Rules & Regulations
as its judgment may determine, and to arbitrarily settle all disputes and determine all matters, questions
and differences in regard hereto or otherwise arising out of, connected with, or incident to the Fair.
3. FAIR LIABILITY: The Nebraska State Fair Management under no circumstances, will be
responsible for personal injury, and assumes no liability for loss or damage of any nature to any
property of the concessionaire, exhibitor or patron while on the grounds or at any time or place due to
theft, fire, tornado, weather conditions, or other causes, nor be liable for or make any payment for the
value thereof.
4. VIOLATION: All exhibitors are bound by the most current editions of Nebraska State Fair’s Space
Rental Rules & Regulations. Any violation of these Rules & Regulations will subject exhibitor to any
penalties as Nebraska State Fair may order and/or penalties prescribed by law.
5. EXHIBITOR COMPLIANCE: Exhibitors and their associates must cooperate with all Nebraska
State Fair officials including office clerks, grounds, admission, security and parking personnel and
volunteers in all matters of policy. The Nebraska State Fair General Rules & Regulations, General
Information, Health Requirements, 4H/FFA General Rules & Regulations, the IAFE National Show
Ring Code of Ethics, and the North American Livestock Show & Rodeo Managers Association
(NALSRMA) Rule Infraction Database (RID) will govern. By submitting an application for entry,
exhibitors agree to comply with all Rules & Regulations governing the Nebraska State Fair as
referenced in these Rules and available on the State Fair website.
6. VOLUNTARY WAIVER: The exhibitor agrees that the interpretation and enforcement of the
Rules & Regulations by the Nebraska State Fair shall be final, without further complaint, appeal, claim,
lawsuit or other recourse against the State Fair. By submitting application for entry, all exhibitors waive
any right to challenge the State Fair’s determinations in that regard.
7. SMOKING: To safeguard exhibitors and livestock, smoking is prohibited in all barns. Smoking is
only allowed outside the buildings and barns. All exhibitors and guests are asked to cooperate with us
in enforcing this rule.
8. ALCOHOL ABUSE: To safeguard exhibitors, livestock and the public, the State of Nebraska Rules
on Alcohol Use and Abuse will be enforced. Excessive use of alcohol will not be tolerated. No one
under the age of 21 is permitted to drink alcoholic beverages. Security and the State Patrol may be
called if necessary.
9. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS: The Nebraska State Fair reserves the right to cancel events or change
scheduling if deemed necessary.
10. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY: The Nebraska State Fair management provides to all persons the
opportunity to exhibit at the Fair without regard to race, creed, color, sex, age or other non-merit factors.
Any discrimination will be prohibited.
11. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: All applications for entry must be made online at www.statefair.org.
Using the online method is the most accurate way of entering. All Livestock entries must be made
through the State Fair website by 5:00 pm, August 10, 2017. Entries must be accompanied by all
13 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
fees and other sums due the State Fair or entry will not be accepted. All FFA and 4-H advance entries
are due electronically by 5:00 pm on August 10. Advance entries include: livestock, dogs, poultry,
rabbits, and livestock contests. All 4-H and FFA entry fees are non-refundable.
PLACEMENT: No animal or article will be entitled to a place on the grounds until proper entry
has been made. All entries must be made on regulation forms, properly filled out and accompanied by
all fees whenever required. Entry blanks are available on-line. The Nebraska State Fair shall reserve
the right to vacate or order the removal of any entry which has been found to be entered in violation of
the entry requirements.
No person, other than those in authority, will be allowed to see the entries or have access to the
entry data until such time as the entries shall have been closed. Should any individual enter an animal
in a name other than that of a bona fide owner or attempt to perpetuate a fraud by misrepresenting any
fact, the entry thus made shall not be allowed to compete for or receive any award, and the owner shall
be barred from this show until reinstated.
Unless otherwise stipulated, entries and competition are open to the public. No animal or article
will be considered unless provided for in the Entry Premium Book. In the Beef, Dairy Cattle, Goat,
Llama, Alpaca, Sheep and Swine departments, all pertinent information including animal’s name and
date of birth must be recorded on the entry form. All animals shown in Open Class shall have been the
property of the exhibitor at least thirty (30) days prior to the opening of the Fair and must show on the
records of the breed association in which they are recorded. For specific 4-H/FFA ownership
deadlines, please refer to the 4-H/FFA General Rules & Regulations included below.
Original registration papers or a certificate of ownership must be available for inspection at
check-in time. In case of inability to get animals recorded before the time limit, a certified copy of the
animal’s pedigree on a regular breed application blank must also be available for inspection at check-
in time. This certificate of application is to be signed by both parties of the transaction and must agree
with breed association records. No papers need to be faxed in. In case of dispute as to age of an
animal exhibited, its certificate of registry shall be required for evidence of its age, and its owner shall
be required to file an affidavit that it is the identical animal therein described.
Animals owned in partnership may be entered in all classes of the Fair in one owner’s name.
The entry shall carry a footnote showing the actual ownership of the animal as it appears in the herd
book records.
12. LATE ENTRIES: Anyone wishing to make an entry in an Open class after the August 10, 2017
closing date may do so with a double entry fee up until midnight Tuesday, August 15, 2017. NO OPEN
CLASS LATE ENTRIES WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER AUGUST 15, 2017. No late entries will be
accepted for 4-H & FFA.
13. SUBSTITUTIONS: Open Class Breeding substitutions within the same age, same class and same
owner will be accepted at check-in. Only one substitution for the original animal will be allowed.
There will be no substitutions allowed for different age classifications or owners. NO EXCEPTIONS.
See 4H/FFA Premium Book for Substitution Rules regarding 4H and FFA exhibitors.
14. ERRONEOUS ENTRY: Participants are responsible for their own entries, and those of their
representatives, in preparation of entries. Animals that have been erroneously entered may be
transferred, at the discretion of the Superintendent of the department, to their proper class, prior to
judging, upon application to the Nebraska State Fair, who will determine the matter upon its merits. If
such classes have been judged, they shall not be reopened.
15. RETURNED CHECKS: Any exhibitor issuing a check for payment, which is returned as non-
sufficient funds or for any other reason not clearing their account, will be charged a $40.00 service
charge. No exhibitor will be permitted to show until the non-sufficient check has been paid. The
14 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
exhibitor will have five (5) working days within which to make payment, by cash, cashier’s check or
money order, in the amount of the outstanding check plus the service charge. If any check is returned
after exhibitor has shown, all premiums will be held until the amount of the check plus the service
charge is paid.
16. CHECK IN PROCEDURES: All Livestock will be checked and health certificates examined by
a representative of the State Veterinary Office at the Check-In Trailer prior to any animals entering the
Nebraska State Fairgrounds. All necessary paperwork must be in order to complete the check-in
process. Prior to showing, all animals must be checked in by an authorized State Fair representative.
Tattoos, ear notches and/or ear tags will be read and registration papers checked.
17. CANCELLATIONS / REFUNDS: All cancellations for Open Class must be submitted in writing
(email, fax or mail) no later than Tuesday, August 15, 2017. Entry fee refunds may be allowed in the
case of a personal emergency for which a statement on an official letterhead from the licensed
practitioner must be submitted. All letters must be submitted to the Livestock Office. No other Entry
Fees will be refunded. No refunds will be given on tickets, badges or vehicle permits. Any refunds
are at the discretion of the Nebraska State Fair Show Management and will be processed after the Fair.
No refunds will be made on accounts of less than $5.00. Requests for refunds of any kind will not be
considered if received after November 1. All 4-H and FFA entry fees are non-refundable.
18. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: All exhibitors must comply with the respective Livestock Health
Requirements (see Livestock Health Requirements Section). All livestock are subject to examination,
upon arrival, for evidence of infectious or contagious diseases and if such is found, they will not be
allowed entrance onto the grounds. They will be held in quarantine and treated at owner’s expense.
Diseased or injured animals may be removed from the grounds upon recommendation of attending
veterinarian and release signed by the Department Superintendent and the General Livestock
Superintendent. Additionally, all 4H/FFA sheep/goats will be checked for club lamb fungus at time
of check in/weigh in. All market lambs and goats must be completely slick shorn, including belly, to
within ¼ inch PRIOR to arrival at show. Wool may be left on the legs ONLY below the knees and
hocks. Any decision by the State Fair inspectors is final.
19. PREMIUMS: Premiums for Open Class will be paid in accordance with the premium schedule
listed in each individual division. Some premiums may be paid according to a sliding scale. There is
no limit to the number of animals an exhibitor may enter in a show or in any one class, however, no
more than two (2) premiums will be awarded per class. Where there are fewer entries in a class than
the number of premiums offered, the judges may, at their discretion, award a prize or prizes of such
grade as the exhibit merits. Unworthy exhibit: judges shall not award a prize to an unworthy exhibit.
It is the intention of the Fair Management that no premium or distinction of any kind shall be given to
any exhibit that is not deserving. An individual exhibitor may enter unlimited animals in any individual
class but shall not be awarded more than two (2) premiums from the individual class. Where there is
but one exhibitor in a class, there will be only one premium awarded. Provided there are competing
exhibitors (two or more) in a class, all placings and premiums may be awarded, except as noted in
special department policies.
Payment of awards will be made as soon as possible after the last day of the Fair and within
sixty (60) days. NO AWARD CHECK WILL BE ISSUED BY THE NEBRASKA STATE FAIR
FOR LESS THAN $2.00. Any discrepancies in the amounts of premium checks must be called to
our attention before November 1.
Special premiums or prizes may be listed in the Premium Book. The Nebraska State Fair will
not be held liable for any award or premium offered by an individual or company, separate from the
15 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
Nebraska State Fair, should that individual or company fail to provide the offered award or premium.
Not all departments will award all ribbon places.
The Nebraska State Fair is required to report payments of $600 or more to the Internal Revenue
Service. Any exhibitor receiving $600 or more will be required to provide the Nebraska State Fair with
a completed IRS Form W-9 providing a taxpayer identification number. NO CHECK WILL BE
ISSUED UNTIL A COMPLETED W-9 FORM IS IN THE LIVESTOCK OFFICE.
20. JUDGES / JUDGING: All judges’ decisions are final! No person shall be permitted to judge a
class in which he/she may be competing for an award or have an ownership of any animal or article
entered in such class. Judges are earnestly requested to familiarize themselves with the Rules &
Regulations of this show. If any exhibitor interferes with the judges in the performance of their duties
by letter, act, or otherwise, he/she shall be excused from competition and exhibition for such period of
time as Management may determine and shall forfeit any awards received at this Fair. Any person, not
an exhibitor, who interferes with the judges in any manner during the performance of their duties, shall
be asked to leave the judging arena. When there are three (3) judges making a placing, the decision of
two (2) shall be conclusive.
21. INHUMANE TREATMENT OF ANIMALS: The Nebraska State Fair is committed to the
humane treatment of all animals exhibited at the Fair. Every possible precaution is taken to insure the
animals’ safety and well-being. The production practices in the livestock industry are based on good
principles of animal husbandry. It is the responsibility of all exhibitors to provide proper care and
treatment to animals. Abuse of animals in any form will not be tolerated. No electric prods or muzzles
will be allowed to be used on any animal at any time. State Fair Management reserves the right to
disqualify and remove any exhibitor deemed in violation of the basic principles of animal husbandry,
with no recourse. Animal care procedures are outlined in our “Animal Welfare Policy”.
22. TREATMENT OF SICK MARKET ANIMALS: If an animal requires emergency treatment
while on the State Fairgrounds, only the Official State Fair Veterinarian will be allowed to administer
any drug, chemical or feed additive to that sick animal. Animals which are administered treatments
having a withdrawal elimination time period will be disqualified from competition. Furthermore, the
Official State Fair Veterinarian, in agreement with State Fair Management, reserves the right to treat
any animal if, in the opinion of the Official State Fair Veterinarian it is in the best interest of the
animal’s health and well-being to be treated. If the Official State Fair Veterinarian administers
treatment to an animal, and therefore uses any medication that does not meet the appropriate withdrawal
and/or elimination time, that animal will be determined ineligible for competition. Any exhibitor
violating this rule will be subject to sanctions by the Nebraska State Fair.
23. MARKET ANIMAL RULES/STATEMENT OF PURPOSE: To foster fair competition, to
provide a level playing field and to protect the safety of food, the following will be prohibited: the
showing of unethically fitted animals, livestock of any ineligible age for exhibition in the class entered,
and/or animals in violation of rules on prohibited substances.
24. UNETHICAL FITTING/PROHIBITED SUBSTANCE, UNAPPROVED DRUG USE,
APPROVED DRUG USE, DRUG TESTING: The Nebraska State Fair reserves the right to question
the alteration of any animal’s physical or physiological structure. As a condition of participation in the
Nebraska State Fair, exhibitor agrees to submit to State Fair, at its discretion and request, any animal
so entered for examination and/or immediate drug testing. Drug tests may include, but not be limited
to blood, tissue, urine and/or eyeballs. The Nebraska State Fair will enforce this policy with zero
tolerance for any level of substance, approved or unapproved by the FDA, found at the time of drug
testing.
16 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
UNETHICAL FITTING/PROHIBITED SUBSTANCE: Unethical fitting and/or prohibited
substances shall be defined as: the injection, use or administration of any drug or substance that is
prohibited by Federal, State, or Local Law, or any drug that is used in a manner prohibited by Federal,
State, or Local Law; the injection (or internal or external administration) of any product or material,
whether gas, solid, or liquid, to an animal for the purpose of deception, including concealing,
enhancing, or transforming the true conformation, degree of firmness, color, breed, condition of age,
or by making the animal appear sounder than otherwise would appear; cutting or tearing of the hide,
cutting or tearing underneath the hide, or removal of tissue in any attempt to alter, change, or modify
the shape or appearance; any artificial means of removing or remedying physical defects or
conformation (i.e. doctoring, doping, tubing, injecting, or lifting or filling under the skin); any type of
injection where oils, glycerin or like substances are used to alter and change the conformation of an
animal; the administration, use or application of any drug, feed additive, or substance affecting the
central nervous system; the administration of diuretics for cosmetic purposes, tissue manipulation,
removal, surgical attachment or otherwise to change, conceal, enhance, or transform the true
conformation or configuration of the animal; any unnatural means of providing an animal feed, water,
or other fluids (i.e. stomach pump, I.V.) with the exception of the drenching process; any physical or
physiological attempt to alter the natural musculature or weight by use of injections or ingested material
not conducive to the continued health and marketability of beef, sheep, swine, or goat carcasses or for
deception.
Any use of artificial color (paint) or dye meant to alter or misrepresent breed characteristics
and/or enhance the conformation of any swine, sheep, or goats will be prohibited. Artificial color
(paint) will be allowed on cattle, but any attempt to change the original color and/or markings of the
animal will be prohibited. Prohibited practices also include the use of artificial tailheads, switches,
polls and hair as well as any internal or external hoof treatments or artificial substances meant to
improve soundness; external applications of such things as liniments and blistering agents that would
cause edematous condition; use of ice packs or other refrigerants to alter the quality of the finish of an
animal. No clipping or hoof treatments of Market Hogs will be allowed.
UNAPPROVED DRUG USE: The showing of any animal that has been administered, or upon
harvest or testing, shows any quantity of any unapproved drug, chemical or medication, is strictly
prohibited. Such drugs include, but are not limited to any diuretic, unapproved growth stimulant or
any other unapproved medication. Unapproved means not approved by the Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) and/or the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for animals to be harvested,
including animals that may be destined for human consumption.
APPROVED DRUG USE: If any animal has been administered any FDA drug approved for
its species and class, sufficient time must have passed for the drug to clear the animal’s system so that
the animal does not test positive for that drug. The showing of any animal that upon harvest or testing
shows any quantity of any approved drug, is strictly prohibited.
DRUG TESTING: Animals selected for drug testing will be tested under the terms of the
Nebraska State Fair Market Animal Drug Testing Policies and Procedures. During the collection
procedure, the Exhibitor and designated responsible adult must be present at all times unless a substitute
exhibitor is approved by the Superintendent. Following the collection, the exhibitor AND
parent/guardian/responsible adult MUST sign the Nebraska State Fair Drug Use Notification and Test
Sample Collection form. Exhibitors found in violation of this rule may be subject to disqualification.
25. VIOLATIONS AND SANCTIONS: Exhibitor compliance with all applicable rules and
regulations is essential to the integrity of the State Fair and its shows, programs and exhibitions.
Violation of any applicable rule or regulation may result in exhibitor sanctions. Sanctions may include,
17 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
but not be limited to disqualification, withholding of premium money, withholding of payment for any
animal carcass, and exclusion from future participation at the Nebraska State Fair. Additionally, rule
violations may be referred to law enforcement authorities when appropriate. The exhibitor will be
notified of any sanction by the State Fair within 60 days of the end of the Fair. An exhibitor may appeal
the findings to a committee designated by the State Fair Board. The determination of the State Fair as
to any sanction shall be final, without recourse against the State Fair.
If deemed necessary by the Nebraska State Fair, an exhibitor found in violation of any show
rules may be subject to have his/her name and the result of the violation submitted to the Rule Infraction
Database (RID) administered by the NALSRMA. The exhibitor acknowledges that this information
will be available to the membership of the NALSRMA.
The State Fair reserves the right to refuse the entry of any exhibitor who has been barred from
any other show on the basis of rule violation or unethical practices. Any exhibitor who has been
disqualified from competition in any major show, or has had sanctions or disciplinary action taken
against him or her, may not be eligible to make entry or compete, or having competed, may not be
eligible to win a premium.
26. 4-H/FFA MARKET ANIMALS/EXHIBITORS: All 4-H and FFA Grand and Reserve Grand
Champion beef, lamb, goat and swine market animals will be tested for prohibited substances. Testing
will be done immediately following the Grand Championship Drive of each species. Each exhibitor’s
cooperation is required. All animals tested will be harvested and held until testing has been completed.
If prohibited substances are found in the blood, urine, tissue, hide, eyeballs or carcass of animals at
time of testing or following harvest, or if there is evidence of unethical fitting, sabotage and/or
tampering, the exhibitor forfeits all rights and is subject to all sanctions including, but not limited to
disqualification, withholding of all premium money, withholding of payment for any animal carcass
and may be barred from future participation at the Nebraska State Fair. ALL OTHER MARKET
ANIMALS WILL BE SUBJECT TO RANDOM TESTING. Random tested animals will not be
harvested but will be subject to all sanctions including, but not limited to disqualification, forfeiture of
all monies, and may be barred from future participation at the Nebraska State Fair.
Drug Certification Agreement: By submitting and signing the 4H Livestock Show Ethics Form
and Statement of Disclosure and/or the FFA Livestock Show Ethics Form and Statement of Disclosure
Form, the exhibitor and parent/guardian certify that the entry has not been administered or that the
exhibitor and/or parent/guardian do not have knowledge that this entry has received any substance not
approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and/or the U. S. Department of Agriculture
(USDA) for food animals. Furthermore, by signing these forms, the exhibitor and parent/guardian
certify that this entry is free and clear of ALL drug and chemical residue and all withdrawal and
elimination time periods have been met.
27. WHOLESOME MEAT ACT: The United States Department of Agriculture Wholesome Meat
Act applies to ALL market livestock exhibited at the Nebraska State Fair.
a. Animals must be in good health and carcasses free of drug or chemical residues.
b. Antibiotics and sulfonamides have required withdrawal periods.
c. Drug label directions for use and withdrawal periods must be followed. Please note that elimination
time (the time it takes for no drug residue to be found in the system) is generally longer than the labeled
withdrawal period for most approved drugs.
d. If drug or other chemical residues are found in tissue of carcasses, the entire carcass may be
condemned.
e. The Nebraska State Fair will in no way be liable or responsible for the condition of the carcass or
the sale price of the animal.
18 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
f. Wholesome Assurance Statement:
aa. The use by non-veterinarians* of any animal drugs or other substances in any manner other than
in accord with labeling approved by FDA is a violation of federal law.
* Note: Abuse of the extra label privilege by veterinarians is unethical and is subject to serious
consequences such as license revocation.
bb. Any food animal must not exceed FDA/EPA/USDA established tolerances for any foreign
substance including drugs, pesticides, feed additives, or other chemicals.
cc. Violative results of residue testing are subject to investigation by USDA and FDA for
prosecution.
dd. Any misrepresentation of a food animal that can potentially affect the acceptability of the
carcass or milk will be considered fraud.
28. CLASSIFICATIONS: No new livestock breed classifications shall be considered for the Entry
Premium Book or for competition until such livestock classification has had a bona fide national
association in existence for at least five (5) years, a bona fide state association for at least three (3)
years, and a guarantee of five (5) or more exhibitors to show in the proposed classification.
Livestock classifications that have less than five (5) exhibitors and twenty (20) head exhibited
for two (2) consecutive years will be placed on probation, and the state breed association will be
informed in writing. If there are less than five (5) exhibitors and/or twenty (20) head are exhibited the
following year, that breed will lose its classification at the Nebraska State Fair.
29. STALLS, TACK STALLS AND TIE OUTS: All “stall with” requests must be submitted online
with the entry. There is no guarantee the request can or will be honored. The Nebraska State Fair
Superintendents will assign stall space, as well as sheep and llama/alpaca tack stalls, within the barns
at the time entry fees are paid in full. Tie spaces will be assigned by the Fair Superintendents. Any
tampering with other exhibitors stalls or tie out stalls will not be tolerated.
30. GENERATORS, BLOCKING CHUTES, TRIM CHUTES, TRIM TABLES, PORTABLE
SCALES: No generators will be allowed in the barns at any time. Generators will be allowed only
outside the barns and in the tie out area. All Open Class blocking chutes will require a Blocking Chute
permit, which can be purchased for $10.00 on the Entry Form and must be affixed to the Chute. Trim
tables and blocking/trimming chutes for Open Class exhibitors will be restricted to each
individual exhibitors assigned stalling and tack area, not to interfere with other exhibitor’s
stalling areas or aisle ways. 4-H/FFA blocking chutes, which will require a permit, will be limited
and there will be a designated area for these blocking chutes. No outside portable scales will be
allowed in any of the livestock barns. All portable scales in the Beef, Sheep or Swine Barns will be
provided by the Nebraska State Fair.
31. FANS, EXTENSION CORDS AND ELECTRICAL DEVICES: All fans, extension cords and
electrical appliances used in the livestock barns must have a ground, must have safe wiring and must
be in safe working condition. All fans used in the barns must have a protective screen (front and back).
Free standing fans will not be allowed. Hanging fans will only be allowed when attached to the tie
rails or to supports attached to the tie rails. Only 1 fan per animal! All fans must be hung to the left of
the beef animals and above the stalling area to help with air circulation. Any and all persons
participating in any and all events covered by this Premium Book hereby acknowledge the following:
A. The superintendent has the express authority to determine if any fan, extension cord or other
electrical device complies with this rule.
B. Should the superintendent determine that a fan, extension cord or other electrical device does
not comply with this provision; the superintendent has the authority to require that the use of
the fan, extension cord or other electrical device be immediately discontinued.
19 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
C. Failure to comply with this provision in a timely manner shall be grounds for immediate
dismissal from continued participation in the Fair and the forfeiture of all entry fees, charges,
ribbons, championships and premiums awarded.
D. Any and all persons participating in any and all events covered by this Premium Book are
responsible for performing all steps necessary to assure that any fans, extension cords and other
electrical devices are in good repair and free of dangerous conditions or defects. Pursuant to
the provision of this Premium Book the Fair may, but has no duty to do so, determine if any
fan, extension cord or other electrical device meets these requirements established in this
portion of this Premium Book.
32. SHOW BACK NUMBERS: Each animal entered in the Nebraska State Fair Open Class Division
will be assigned a number. Those numbers will be given to each exhibitor as a back number at the time
of check-in. It is the exhibitor’s responsibility to have the correct back number displayed on their back
or in a holder attached to the waist before entering the show ring. If the back number does not
correspond with the original entry on the official judge’s sheet, the result may be disqualification of
that animal. Please refer to 4-H/FFA General Rules & Regulations for specific rules.
33. WATER: A water container, with water, must be visible and available for watering on a regular
basis in each penned/stalled area at all times. Nebraska State Fair Officials reserve the right, at its sole
discretion, to contact a Nebraska State Fair veterinarian to determine if water should be given.
34. INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FAIRS AND EXPOSITIONS (IAFE) NATIONAL
CODE OF SHOW RING ETHICS: Exhibitors of animals at livestock shows shall at all times deport
themselves with honesty and good sportsmanship. Their conduct in this competitive environment shall
always reflect the highest standards of honor and dignity to promote the advancement of agricultural
education. This code applies to junior as well as open class exhibitors who compete in structured
classes of competition. This code applies to all livestock offered in any event at a livestock show. In
addition to the “IAFE National Code of Show Ring Ethics”, fairs and livestock shows may have rules
and regulations which they impose on the local, county, state, provincial and national levels.
All youth leaders working with junior exhibitors are under an affirmative responsibility to do
more than avoid improper conduct or questionable acts. Their moral values must be so certain and
positive that those younger and more pliable will be influenced by their fine example. Owners,
exhibitors, fitters, trainers and absolutely responsible persons who violate the code of ethics will forfeit
premiums, awards and auction proceeds and shall be prohibited from future exhibition in accordance
with the rules adopted by the respective fairs and livestock shows. Exhibitors who violate this code of
ethics demean the integrity of all livestock exhibitors and should be prohibited from competition at all
livestock shows in the United States and Canada.
The following is a list of guidelines for all exhibitors and all livestock in competitive events:
1. All exhibitors must present, upon request of fair and livestock show officials, proof
of ownership, length of ownership and age of all animals entered. Misrepresentation
of ownership, age, or any facts relating thereto is prohibited.
2. Owners, exhibitors, fitters, trainers, or absolutely responsible persons shall provide
animal health certificates from licensed veterinarians upon request by fair or
livestock show officials.
3. Junior exhibitors are expected to care for and groom their animals while at fairs or
livestock shows.
4. Animals shall be presented to show events where they will enter the food chain free
of violative drug residues. The act of entering an animal in a livestock show is the
giving of consent by the owner, exhibitor, fitter, trainer, and/or absolutely
20 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
responsible person for show management to obtain any specimens of urine, saliva,
blood, or other substances from the animal to be used in testing. Animals not entered
in an event which culminates with the animal entering the food chain shall not be
administered drugs other than in accordance with applicable federal, state and
provincial statutes, regulations and rules. Livestock shall not be exhibited if the
drugs administered in accordance with federal, state and provincial statutes,
regulations and rules affect the animal’s performance or appearance at the event.
If the laboratory report on the analysis of saliva, urine, blood or other sample taken
from livestock indicates the presence of forbidden drugs or medication, this shall be
prima facie evidence such substance has been administered to the animal either
internally or externally. It is presumed that the sample of urine, saliva, blood, or
other substance tested by the laboratory to which it is sent is the one taken from the
animal in question, its integrity is preserved and all procedures of said collection
and preservation, transfer to the laboratory and analysis of the sample are correct
and accurate and the report received from the laboratory pertains to the sample taken
from the animal in question and correctly reflects the condition of the animal at the
time the sample was taken, with the burden on the owner, exhibitor, fitter, trainer or
absolutely responsible person to prove otherwise.
At any time after an animal arrives on the fair or livestock show premises, all
treatments involving the use of drugs and/or medications for the sole purpose of
protecting the health of the animal shall be administered by a licensed veterinarian.
5. Any surgical procedure or injection of any foreign substance or drug or the external
application of any substance (irritant, counterirritant or similar substance) which
could affect the animal’s performance or alter its natural contour, conformation or
appearance, except external applications of substances to the hoofs or horns of
animals which affect appearance only, and except for surgical procedures performed
by a duly licensed veterinarian for the sole purpose of protecting the health of the
animal, is prohibited.
6. The use of showing and/or handling practices or devices such as striking animals to
cause swelling, using electrical contrivance, or other similar practices are not
acceptable and are prohibited.
7. Direct criticism or interference with the judge, fair or livestock show management,
other exhibitors, breed representatives, or show officials before, during, or after the
competitive event is prohibited. In the furtherance of their official duty, all judges,
fair and livestock show management, or other show officials shall be treated with
courtesy, cooperation and respect and no person shall direct abusive or threatening
conduct toward them.
8. No owner, exhibitor, fitter, trainer, or absolutely responsible person shall conspire
with another person or persons to intentionally violate this code of ethics or
knowingly contribute or cooperate with another person or persons, either by
affirmative action or inaction to violate this code of ethics. Violation of this rule
shall subject such individual to disciplinary action.
9. The application of this code of ethics provides for absolute responsibility for an
animal’s condition by an owner, exhibitor, fitter, trainer, or participant whether or
not he or she was actually instrumental in, or had actual knowledge of, the treatment
of the animal in contravention of this code of ethics.
21 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
10. The act of entering an animal is the giving of consent by the owner, exhibitor, fitter,
trainer, or absolutely responsible person to have disciplinary action taken by the fair
or livestock show for violation of this Code of Show Ring Ethics and any other rules
of competition of the fair or livestock show without recourse against the fair or
livestock show. The act of entering an animal is the giving of consent that any
proceedings or disciplinary action taken by the fair or livestock show may be
published with the name of the violator or violators in any publication of the
International Association of Fairs and Expositions, including Fairs and Expos and
any special notices to members.
11. The act of entering of an animal in a fair or livestock show is the giving of
verification by the owner, exhibitor, fitter, trainer, or absolutely responsible person
that he or she has read the IAFE National Code of Show Ring Ethics and understands
the consequences of and penalties provided for actions prohibited by the code. It is
further a consent that any action which contravenes these rules and is also in
violation of federal, state or provincial statutes, regulations or rules may be released
to appropriate law enforcement authorities with jurisdiction over such infractions.
35. PROTESTS: The Nebraska State Fair will handle ALL protests. Verbal protests will be
directed to the proper specie superintendent and if necessary, brought to the State Fair Livestock
Superintendent. All formal protests must be submitted in writing to the State Fair Livestock
Superintendent. All forms must be signed by three individuals, and be accompanied by a monetary fee
of $150.00, cash or certified check. Such written protests must state plainly the cause of complaint or
appeal and must be filed with the State Fair Livestock Superintendent immediately upon the occasion
of the protest. No complaint or appeal based solely upon the statement that a judge is incompetent will
be considered by Management. This complaint, along with supporting documents, will be submitted
to the Livestock Superintendent and Executive Director. The report of wrongdoing will then be
presented to a neutral panel appointed by the Executive Director for review. The panel shall review
the form, the allegations, and the supporting documents or evidence and report its findings and
proposed decision to the Livestock Superintendent and the Executive Director. At no time will any
exhibition, judging event, or any other ongoing event be delayed, stopped or interrupted as a result of
any allegation of wrongdoing. Where a formal protest is to be made against the competition of an
animal or article in any class, notice of same must be filed with the Department Superintendent before
the class is judged or prior to any Division or Grand Champion Drive. Once an animal/exhibit reaches
championship judging, NO protests will be accepted. Any decision rendered by the Executive Director
and Livestock Superintendent based upon the review and proposed decision of the neutral panel shall
be deemed a final decision.
36. STATE FIRE MARSHAL: By order of the State Fire Marshal, the use of flammable and
combustible grooming sprays inside the barns is strictly prohibited. These types of materials must be
used outside of the buildings only. Any and all lighting used by exhibitors must be securely fastened.
The electrical boxes in the barns MUST be kept clear at all times. Also, the aisles must be
maintained at all times in the Cattle Barn. Yellow lines are painted on the floor designating these
boundaries. ALL show equipment, blocking chutes, chairs, etc., MUST be kept within these
boundaries at all times. Blocking chute areas will be designated for 4H/FFA.
In addition, any use of refrigerators, freezers, microwaves, ovens and electric cookers is strictly
prohibited. This will be enforced!
37. CONCESSIONS AND ADVERTISING PRIVILEGES: All exhibits, concessions and/or
commercial privileges are at the sole discretion of Fair Management. Under no circumstances will any
22 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
advertising material be allowed to be placed upon buildings, trees or other places on the grounds or
otherwise distributed without Management permission.
38. EXHIBITOR LIABILITY: Exhibitors of livestock must exercise due discretion in regard to the
animals they are exhibiting, whether in the ring, stall or pen and exhibitor must assume responsibility
for any damages caused by or to their animals. The exhibitor will be solely responsible for any
consequential or other loss, injury or damage done to, or occasioned by, or arising from any animal or
article exhibited by him/her and for its description as given in the Premium Book. Exhibitor shall
indemnify the Nebraska State Fair against all legal or other proceedings in regard thereto, as well as
any damage or injury to any other person or property, caused by the exhibitor or any of the animals
exhibited with the Fair.
39. PHOTOGRAPHS: The Nebraska State Fair will hire a photographer who will take the official
photographs for the Fair. Exhibitor must agree to present themselves and their animal(s) at the request
of show officials for official photographs. Official photographs are those that will be used for
promotional purposes or used in any official publications. Unofficial (i.e. personal) photographs MAY
NOT be published without written approval of management. Exhibitors wishing to purchase
photographs must contact the Official Photographer.
As a Nebraska State Fair exhibitor, you acknowledge that your photograph may be taken by the
official Nebraska State Fair Photographer for use by the Nebraska State Fair and agree to release and
hold harmless the Nebraska State Fair Board, their officers, employees and agents and any and all
parties to whom this or any photograph may be released. This photograph will be taken for artistic
reasons or newsworthiness and you agree that it may be released to any medium and may be used in
any manner for any purpose whatsoever without compensation.
ADDITIONAL 4-H & FFA GENERAL RULES & REGULATIONS
A. STATE FAIR LIVESTOCK RULES: Be sure to review State Fair General Livestock Rules and
Regulations in addition to the following rules. Also refer to specific species rules for additional
information. Exhibitors are responsible for adhering to all livestock rules. Violation of any of the stated
rules may result in disqualification. Violations will be reviewed by a 3 person committee to interpret
and determine the appropriate action.
B. INTERPRETATION OF RULES: The FFA and 4-H divisions will refer to a 3 person committee
the final and absolute right to interpret, determine and settle all matters, questions and differences in
regard to or otherwise arising out of, connected with or incident to the fair.
C. ENTRY DEADLINES & REQUIREMENTS: All applications for entry must be made online at
www.statefair.org. All FFA and 4-H advance entries must be made through the State Fair website
by 5:00 pm on August 10, 2017. Advance entries include: livestock, dogs, poultry, rabbits, and
livestock contests. Entries must be accompanied by all fees and other sums due the State Fair, or entry
will not be accepted. All 4-H and FFA entry fees are non-refundable.
D. ELIGIBILITY OF EXHIBITORS: 4-H — Exhibitor must be a 4-H member enrolled in the
project they are exhibiting in the county which he/she represents. Youth must be enrolled in 4-H by
June 15 of the current year. In classes where presence of the 4-H'er is required for judging purposes,
such as animal exhibits and judging contests, a 4-H member must be 10 years of age by January 1, of
the current year, or become 11 years of age during the current year. The last year of eligibility is the
calendar year in which the member becomes 19 years of age.
FFA — Only bona fide Nebraska FFA members that have paid dues shall be eligible for FFA Division
entries. Members may retain their active membership until the 30th day of November following the
23 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
fourth National FFA Convention which occurs after the member graduates from or leaves high school.
There will be no discrimination because of race, color, sex, religion, or national origin.
E. ELIGIBILITY OF ANIMALS: Qualified animals for a 4-H or FFA class at the State Fair must be
registered purebred or non-registered commercial breeding animals, market beef, feeder calves, market
lambs, market goats, market swine and those exotic breeds of breeding beef where the respective
associations issue certified papers. A breeding animal to be eligible for show in a registered (purebred)
class must be owned by the exhibitor by June 15 of the current year and be registered by the official
breed association. The registration paper or certificate must indicate one of the following (1) the name
of the exhibitor (2) the name of the exhibitor and/or a co-owner who is an immediate member of the
exhibitor's family (members of a household, including parents, brothers and sisters, and youth in care
of the head of the household) or (3) the family or ranch name or parent's name. Copies of the registration
paper or certificate must be submitted with State Fair entries; original registration papers or certificates
must be presented at check-in. REGISTRATION MUST BE COMPLETED BY FAIR DATE.
Any animal that is disqualified from the State Fair for any reason is not eligible to be used in
showmanship or any other 4-H or FFA contest while at the State Fair.
Any FFA or 4-H project animal that has been offered for auction, where the intent of the auction is
change of ownership, is ineligible for the 4-H and FFA livestock classes at the Nebraska State Fair.
This includes animals offered for sale in other events at the Nebraska State Fair, when the event is prior
to the FFA and 4-H event the animal is entered in. A project animal that has been through a “premium
only” auction is eligible to be exhibited at the Nebraska State Fair, provided it and its exhibitor meet
all other ownership and eligibility requirements. A “premium only” auction is defined as an event in
which change of ownership is never the intent; but the intent is only to provide a monetary premium to
accompany the ribbon earned by the exhibit.
F. 4-H/FFA EXHIBITS: Training offered by agricultural education/FFA and Extension/4-H
contribute to youth’s preparation for a future in agricultural production, agribusiness and other areas.
Simultaneous participation in both programs is acceptable and encouraged, if students choose to do so.
For purposes of exhibition, an animal can be nominated for the state fair in both organizations but
only shown in one organization or the other, not both. Exhibitors must submit proper nomination
material by the appropriate date (April 15 for market beef, June 15 for all other livestock). Proper
nomination material for market animals includes an EID tag and DNA sample. Proper nomination for
breeding animals includes a breeding nomination card and a tattoo for cattle, ear notches for FFA
breeding swine, and scrapie tags for sheep and goats. EID tags are also acceptable for FFA breeding
animals. Exhibitors will determine in which organization they are showing an animal by the August
10 entry deadline.
G. OWNERSHIP OF ANIMALS, RABBITS & POULTRY: All animals, rabbits and poultry in the
FFA and 4-H Shows must be owned by the exhibitor. Ownership of animals must be certified where
required on the appropriate DNA and breeding nomination forms in the Extension Office or with the
FFA advisor. Extension offices and FFA advisors will subsequently send DNA samples and breeding
nomination cards to AKSARBEN. All market animals (beef, sheep, swine & meat goats) must have a
hair sample for DNA testing on file at AKSARBEN by the appropriate dates (April 15 for beef, June
15 for all other species) in order to be exhibited at the State Fair. All breeding animals must have a
breeding nomination card on file at AKSARBEN by June 15 in order to be exhibited at the State Fair.
In the case of dairy animals, some lease arrangements are acceptable, but must be certified on the
ownership affidavit in the State 4-H Office. Both 4-H and FFA dairy affidavits are to be sent to the
State 4-H Office.
24 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
H. SHOWMAN SUBSTITUTIONS: An animal must be shown by the FFA or 4-H owner who entered
it unless the exhibitor is excused by the Division Superintendent because of serious illness, disability
due to an injury (e.g. broken arm or leg) or conflict with other livestock classes in a 4-H or FFA show.
An exhibitor who has more than one animal in a class need not secure approval for another FFA or 4-
H member, eligible to exhibit livestock, to show the additional animal in the class. A substitute
exhibitor for an FFA animal can only be another FFA exhibitor at the current State Fair, and a substitute
exhibitor for a 4-H animal can only be another 4-H exhibitor at the current State Fair. All substitute
showmen should wear an exhibitor number identifying him/her as a substitute showman (available in
the Livestock Office and/or from species superintendent).
I. PREMIUMS: Payment of awards will be made as soon as possible after the last day of the Fair and
within sixty (60) days. NO AWARD CHECK WILL BE ISSUED BY THE NEBRASKA STATE
FAIR FOR LESS THAN $2.00. Any discrepancies in the amounts of premium checks must be called
to our attention before November 1.
Special premiums or prizes may be listed in the Premium Book. The Nebraska State Fair will not
be held liable for any award or premium offered by an individual or company, separate from the
Nebraska State Fair, should that individual or company fail to provide the offered award or premium.
Not all departments will award all ribbon places.
The Nebraska State Fair is required to report payments of $600 or more to the Internal Revenue
Service. Any exhibitor receiving $600 or more will be required to provide the Nebraska State Fair with
a completed IRS Form W-9 providing a taxpayer identification number. NO CHECK WILL BE
ISSUED UNTIL A COMPLETED W-9 FORM IS IN THE LIVESTOCK OFFICE.
J. NO WITHDRAWLS: Animals selected as division champions and reserve champions cannot be
withdrawn from the grand champion drive. Violation of this rule may result in disqualification and
exhibitor may be barred from future participation at the Nebraska State Fair.
K. BACK TAGS: Each 4-H and FFA exhibitor will have their own unique number printed on a back
tag. Exhibitors must have this number on their back while exhibiting animals
L. QUALITY ASSURANCE TRAINING: All exhibitors in beef, dairy cattle, meat goats, poultry,
rabbits, sheep and swine must have received Quality Assurance training or testing through a UNL
Extension program or high school agriculture education program prior to the fair. Program attendance
or completion of a test in the county extension office is required. Completion of training will be
certified by an FFA advisor or county extension staff.
M. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: All 4H/FFA Livestock must meet the Nebraska State Fair Health
Requirements. (see Health Requirements section) In addition, all 4H/FFA sheep/goats will be checked
for club lamb fungus at time of check in/weigh in. All market lambs and goats must be completely
slick shorn, including belly, to within ¼ inch PRIOR to arrival at show. Wool may be left on the legs
ONLY below the knees and hocks.
N. GROOMING OF LIVESTOCK: Preparation and grooming of an animal should be the primary
responsibility of the State Fair exhibitor; however, assistance may be provided by other State Fair 4-H
or FFA exhibitors and/or immediate family members.
All livestock shows will be Blow and Go; animals may be clipped, blown and brushed or
combed to enhance their appearance. Guidelines for the Blow and Go show:
1. All animals will be shown free of any adhesive, glue, paint, or powder products.
2. Any compounds that have adhesive qualities that when applied cannot be combed or
brushed through or alter the color of the animal are forbidden. These products include, but
are not limited to commonly used adhesives and colorants such as Prime Time, EZ Comb,
25 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
Tail Adhesive, Ultra White Touch Up, Black Touch Up, Black Finisher and black show
foam.
3. Alcohol, water, oil, foam or any water- or alcohol-based products with no adhesive or glue
qualities, or artificial colorings are permitted. These products include conditioners and
commonly used sprays such as Kleen Sheen, Revive, Final Bloom, Freshen Up and white
show foam. Paint will be allowed on the hooves and dewclaws only.
4. 4-H/FFA beef blocking chutes, which will require a permit, will be limited and there will
be a designated area for these blocking chutes.
O. DRESS CODE: When showing animals, exhibitors must wear the official State Fair FFA or 4-H
T-shirt. Blue jeans are appropriate; however, refer to Department 35 for dairy dress code. Hats shall
not be worn in the show ring.
P. RIGHT TO EXCUSE: The superintendent of the area and/or the show management has the right
to excuse any exhibit from the Nebraska State Fair if the exhibit is not a quality exhibit.
Q. ETHICS AND DISCLOSURE FORM: All livestock exhibitors must submit a signed ethics
affidavit and statement of disclosure to the show superintendent for each species they are exhibiting at
the time of check in. This form shall serve as an acknowledgement of having read the fair book and a
willingness to abide by it. By submitting and signing the 4H Livestock Show Ethics Form and
Statement of Disclosure and/or the FFA Livestock Show Ethics Form and Statement of Disclosure
Form, the exhibitor and parent/guardian certify that the entry has not been administered or that the
exhibitor and/or parent/guardian do not have knowledge that this entry has received any substance not
approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and/or the U. S. Department of Agriculture
(USDA) for food animals. Furthermore, by signing these forms, the exhibitor and parent/guardian
certify that this entry is free and clear of ALL drug and chemical residue and all withdrawal and
elimination time periods have been met.
R. 4-H/FFA MARKET ANIMALS/EXHIBITORS: All 4-H and FFA Grand and Reserve Grand
Champion beef, lamb, goat and swine market animals will be tested for prohibited substances. Testing
will be done immediately following the Grand Championship Drive of each species. Each exhibitor’s
cooperation is required! All animals tested will be harvested and held until all testing has been
completed. If prohibited substances are found in the blood, urine, tissue, hide, eyeballs or carcass of
animals at time of testing or following harvest, or if there is evidence of unethical fitting, sabotage
and/or tampering, the exhibitor forfeits all rights and is subject to all sanctions including, but not limited
to disqualification, withholding of all premium money, withholding of payment for any animal carcass
and may be barred from future participation at the Nebraska State Fair. ALL OTHER MARKET
ANIMALS WILL BE SUBJECT TO RANDOM TESTING. Random tested animals will not be
harvested but will be subject to all sanctions including, but not limited to disqualification, forfeiture of
all monies, and may be barred from future participation at the Nebraska State Fair.
UNAPPROVED DRUG USE: The showing of any animal that has been administered, or upon
harvest or testing, shows any quantity of any unapproved drug, chemical or medication, is strictly
prohibited. Such drugs include, but are not limited to any diuretic, unapproved growth stimulant or
any other unapproved medication. Unapproved means not approved by the Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) and/or the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for animals to be harvested,
including animals that may be destined for human consumption.
APPROVED DRUG USE: If any animal has been administered any FDA drug approved for
its species and class, sufficient time must have passed for the drug to clear the animal’s system so that
the animal does not test positive for that drug. The showing of any animal that upon harvest or testing
shows any quantity of any approved drug, is strictly prohibited.
26 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
DRUG TESTING: Animals selected for drug testing will be tested under the terms of the
Nebraska State Fair Market Animal Drug Testing Policies and Procedures. During the collection
procedure, the Exhibitor and designated responsible adult must be present at all times unless a substitute
exhibitor is approved by the Superintendent. Following the collection, the exhibitor and
parent/guardian/responsible adult must sign the Nebraska State Fair Drug Use Notification and Test
Sample Collection form. Exhibitors found in violation of this rule are subject to disqualification.
27 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
SPECIFIC FFA RULES
1. NON-LIVESTOCK PROJECT ELIGIBILITY Agricultural Mechanics projects shall be the direct result of the Agricultural Mechanics
instruction in Agricultural Education and constructed primarily under the supervision of the
Agricultural Education instructor. The student entering the project will have had at least 75% of the
construction responsible for the project.
All Crops entries shall be a part of the FFA member’s Supervised Agricultural Experience
Program with wheat and oats harvested in current year and shelled corn, commercial milo (sorghum)
and soybeans harvested preceding fall, and other crops harvested in the most recent harvest year.
All livestock, crop, range boards, and agricultural mechanics entries shall be certified by
the Agricultural Education Instructor.
Exhibitors who fail to comply with any of the show rules and/or regulations are subject to
disciplinary action by the Nebraska State Fair FFA Superintendent Committee. Disciplinary action
could involve immediate dismissal and/or long-term ineligibility.
2. ENTRY FEES (Same as 4-H)
Breeding Beef $33.00
Market Beef $36.00
Dairy $20.00
Market Sheep $13.00
Breeding Sheep $10.00
Market Meat Goat $13.00
Breeding Meat Goat $10.00
Market Swine $13.00
Breeding Swine $10.00
Entry fees for Ag mechanics and crops are $1.00 per exhibit; horticulture and apiculture $1.00 per
exhibit. THE FEES MUST BE PAID ONLINE THROUGH THE SHOWWORKS SYSTEM
AT THE TIME OF ENTERING. ALL FFA CHAPTERS WITH STUDENTS EXHIBITING
AT STATE FAIR MUST STILL SUBMIT A $25 ADMINISTRATIVE FEE WITH A
SCHOOL CHECK. INVOICES WILL BE MADE MAILED TO ALL CHAPTERS
FOLLOWING THE FAIR IN SEPTEMBER. CHECKS SHOULD BE MADE PAYABLE TO:
NEBRASKA FFA FOUNDATION – NEBRASKA STATE FAIR ACCOUNT.
3. RIBBONS AND PREMIUMS AWARDED
All FFA terminal champions are awarded additional premium money, paid at the same level as
4-H terminal champions.
The FFA General Superintendent reserves the right to prorate the award listings for each FFA
Division. All complaints, errors, or omissions must be filed to the FFA General Superintendent by
October 31 of the same fair year. All sponsorships for FFA awards will be collected and deposited in
the Nebraska FFA Foundation treasury in order to be printed in the sponsorship booklet. Any
sponsorship(s) awarded privately and not collected by the Nebraska FFA Foundation are not the
responsibility of the Nebraska FFA Association and will not be printed in the FFA sponsorship
booklet.
28 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
4. NUMBER OF ENTRIES
Each eligible FFA exhibitor will be permitted to show a maximum of 6 beef animals
total but no more than 2 market animals, 3 breeding animals and 3 feeder calves, dairy animals
(refer to Department 35 - Youth Dairy Show ), 4 market swine, 2 breeding gilts, 3 market
lambs, 4 breeding sheep, 3 market goats and 4 breeding goats. Each eligible FFA exhibitor will
be permitted to enter 1 grain entry, per crop area; 1 range board; 2 Agricultural Mechanics
entries per class. Refer to the Horticulture and Apiculture section for number of entries.
5. HERDSMANSHIP
Herdsmanship continues to be a priority for the 2017 fair. Fair staff have posted a set of
general rules and scoring criteria for herdsmanship that FFA will follow.
Two herdsmanship awards will be given for the outstanding chapter efforts in each livestock
division as follows: 1) The chapter exhibiting the average number or less of animals (in each
division) will compete for one Herdsmanship trophy, 2) the chapters in each division exhibiting
more than the average number will compete for one Herdsmanship trophy in each livestock division.
In addition to the trophies, rosettes and purple ribbons will be awarded to the chapters earning the
award. Each chapter is expected to cooperate in proper manure disposal, keeping alleys clean,
properly storing feed and trappings, and keeping animals clean, neat and attractive. Uniform signs
will be provided.
FFA members desiring to tie out beef during feeding or non-herdsmanship hours will be
permitted to do so, however, cooperation is encouraged from these individuals to respect the rights of
other exhibitors and to clean the area occupied after animal(s) is/are returned to assigned stall(s).
Failure to respect the rights of others and/or to clean the area will be evaluated in herdsmanship
standings.
6. FITTING AND SHOWMANSHIP
The fitting and showmanship contest will be open to any bona fide FFA exhibitor of dairy,
beef, swine, sheep, and goats. Each contest will be held at the time posted. There will be six classes
beginning with out of school, followed by seniors, juniors, sophomores, freshman and junior high.
Each species superintendent may sub-divide the class if numbers warrant. Fitting of livestock should
be done by the exhibitor, but assistance may be provide by other exhibitors, family members, etc..
Livestock exhibited in the showmanship classes must be owned and entered by the showmanship
exhibitor. Exhibitors not adhering to this rule may be disqualified from the showmanship
competition. Purple, blue, red, and white ribbons, if earned, will be presented to exhibitors
participating. Other awards will be given as warranted by sponsorships provided.
A Grand Champion Showman is ineligible to compete again in the fitting and
showmanship contest in the same enterprise (division).
Showmanship Divisions: Out of School, Seniors, Juniors, Sophomores, Freshmen, and
Junior High except for dairy (refer Dept 35). Divisions will be split into classes at the discretion
of the Superintendent.
ALL SHOWS ARE CONSIDERED BLOW AND GO, WHICH MEANS NO ADHESIVES,
GLUES, POWDERS OR ARTIFICIALS COLORS CAN BE USED ON ANIMALS
No restraining of swine for clipping on fair grounds.
29 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
NOTE – THE FOLLOWING MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION WAS OBTAINED FROM
THE STATE DEPARTMENT IN FEBRUARY, 2011. ANY UPDATES OR CHANGES SINCE
THAT DATE TAKE PRECEDENCE OVER WHAT IS BELOW.
ARTICLE VI
MEMBERSHIP
Section 2. Active Membership. Any student who is regularly enrolled in a
secondary agricultural education program is entitled to become an active member of
his or her locally chartered FFA chapter. Secondary agricultural education programs
shall be defined as those programs provided to students in grades 7-12. To retain
active membership during high school, the member must:
(a) Be enrolled in at least one agricultural education course during the school year and/or follow a planned
course of study for an agricultural occupation which includes a supervised agricultural experience
program, the objective of which is preparation for an agricultural career. Members may retain their
active membership until the 30th day of November following the fourth National FFA Convention which
occurs after the member graduates from or leaves high school. (Example – A 2017 graduate would
be eligible to exhibit in 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020.)
(b) Show an interest in the affairs of the Association by attending meetings, striving for advanced degrees of
membership and participating in other organized activities of the member’s local FFA chapter and of the
Association.
(c) Pay all current local, state, and national dues in a timely manner.
Section 4. Service in Armed Forces. An active member who is in good standing at
the time of induction into the armed forces of the United States of America shall be in good standing
during his or her period of active service without further payment of dues or attendance at meetings.
Time spent in the armed forces shall not be considered as elapsed time in determining the maximum
period of four national conventions following the member’s graduation from high school or leaving
high school. In order to maintain active membership and apply for advanced degrees of membership,
members serving in the armed forces must resume active participation (paying all applicable dues in a
timely manner and attending meetings) within six months after having been honorably discharged
from military service. Members participating in a six-month Armed Services program shall be
eligible for one full year of extended membership. No individual, however, may retain active
membership beyond his or her 23rd birthday.
30 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
BREEDING LIVESTOCK AGE BREAKS
DAIRY CATTLE
REFER TO DEPARTMENT 35 – Youth Dairy Show
BEEF CATTLE
BULLS HEIFERS
Jan thru April 2017 Jan thru April 2017
Nov thru Dec 2016 Nov thru Dec 2016
Sept thru Oct 2016 Sept thru Oct 2016
July thru Aug 2016 July thru Aug 2016
May thru June 2016 May thru June 2016
Mar thru April 2016 Mar thru April 2016
Jan thru Feb 2016 Jan thru Feb 2016
July thru Dec 2015
Cow/Calf (calved prior to 6/15/17)
SHEEP
EWES RAMS
Lamb (dropped after 12/31/16) Lamb (dropped after 12/31/16)
Yearling (1/1/16 – 12/31/16) Yearling (1/1/16– 12/31/16)
Ewe (dropped before 1/1/16)
GOATS
Kid (dropped after 12/31/16)
Yearling (1/1/16 – 12/31/16)
Doe (dropped before 1/1/16)
31 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
LOT 2 – BEEF CATTLE
Animals in each class will be placed on the purple, blue, red, and white ribbon group basis.
Top animals will be placed on a 1-2 basis and will compete for championship, if deemed worthy by
the judge.
All beef animals must have a completed BVD test prior to arrival at the fair as mandated by the
state veterinary.
A student may show no more than 6 beef animals with no more than 2 market beef, 3 breeding
beef and 3 feeder calves.
Beef shows including Showmanship, Market Beef and Breeding Beef will be Blow and Go;
animals may be clipped, blown and brushed or combed to enhance their appearance. Guidelines for
the Blow and Go show:
1. Beef animals will be shown free of any adhesive, glue, paint, or powder products.
2. Any compounds that have adhesive qualities that when applied cannot be combed or
brushed through or alter the color of the animal are forbidden. These products include, but
are not limited to commonly used adhesives and colorants such as Prime Time, EZ Comb,
Tail Adhesive, Ultra White Touch Up, Black Touch Up, Black Finisher and black show
foam.
3. Alcohol, water, oil, foam or any water- or alcohol-based products with no adhesive or glue
qualities, or artificial colorings are permitted. These products include conditioners and
commonly used sprays such as Kleen Sheen, Revive, Final Bloom and white show foam.
Paint will be allowed on the hooves and dewclaws only.
4. 4-H/FFA beef blocking chutes, which will require a permit, will be limited and there will
be a designated area for these blocking chutes.
BREEDING BEEF
REGISTERED—An exhibitor must have proper registration papers and entry form
cleared with the FFA Breeding Beef Supt before any animal will be shown. Registered beef
animals must be entered by tattoo number online. Registration papers, entry forms, and ear tattoos
will be checked and verified at check-in time. Cow/Calf pairs can be shown as a pair; the calf may
also be shown as a Junior Breeding Animal, either Heifers or Bulls. Cow/calf pairs will be allowed
to show as Feeder Calves, either heifers or steers. However, the same calf may not be shown as both
a breeding animal and feeder calf. A separate entry form must accompany feeder calf and junior
breeding calf animals. Entries must be listed both ways and entry fees in accordance with the entries.
During check in, the calf must also be checked in separately as a breeding animal or weighed in
separately as a feeder calf.
32 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
Bulls shall be shown with a nose lead. Bulls shall be tied in the stall with a neck halter at all
times. Non-registered bulls will be shown in the “All Other Breeds” Division.
The following is a premium listing only—It is not the order of show.
The Nebraska FFA Show offers the following list of breeds for competition. However, there
must be at least three entries in a specific age or breed to be its own class in the show. Any
breed that does not have three entries will be shown in the Other Breeds category:
ANGUS (Bulls) BRAUNVIEH (Bulls)
2000 Jan thru April 2017 2020 Jan thru April 2017
2001 Nov thru Dec 2016 2021 Nov thru Dec 2016
2002 Sept thru Oct 2016 2022 Sept thru Oct 2016
2003 July thru Aug 2016 2023 July thru Aug 2016
2004 May thru June 2016 2024 May thru June 2016
2005 Mar thru April 2016 2025 Mar thru April 2016
2006 Jan thru Feb 2016 2026 Jan thru Feb 2016
ANGUS (Heifers) BRAUNVIEH (Heifers)
2007 Jan thru April 2017 2027 Jan thru April 2017
2008 Nov thru Dec 2016 2028 Nov thru Dec 2016
2009 Sept thru Oct 2016 2029 Sept thru Oct 2016
2010 July thru Aug 2016 2030 July thru Aug 2016
2011 May thru June 2016 2031 May thru June 2016
2012 Mar thru April 2016 2032 Mar thru April 2016
2013 Jan thru Feb 2016 2033 Jan thru Feb 2016
2014 July thru Dec 2015 2034 July thru Dec 2015
2015 Cow/Calf (calved prior to 6/15/17) 2035 Cow/Calf (calved prior to 6/15/17)
CHAROLAIS (Bulls) COMPOSITE CHAROLAIS (Bulls)
2040 Jan thru April 2017 2080 Jan thru April 2017
2041 Nov thru Dec 2016 2081 Nov thru Dec 2016
2042 Sept thru Oct 2016 2082 Sept thru Oct 2016
2043 July thru Aug 2016 2083 July thru Aug 2016
2044 May thru June 2016 2084 May thru June 2016
2045 Mar thru April 2016 2085 Mar thru April 2016
2046 Jan thru Feb 2016 2086 Jan thru Feb 2016
CHAROLAIS (Heifers) COMPOSITE CHAROLAIS (Heifers)
2047 Jan thru April 2017 2087 Jan thru April 2017
2048 Nov thru Dec 2016 2088 Nov 7 Dec 2016
2049 Sept thru Oct 2016 2089 Sept thru Oct 2016
2050 July thru Aug 2016 2090 July thru Aug 2016
2051 May thru June 2016 2091 May thru June 2016
2052 Mar thru April 2016 2092 Mar thru April 2016
33 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
2053 Jan thru Feb 2016 2093 Jan thru Feb 2016
2054 July thru Dec 2015 2094 July thru Dec 2015
2055 Cow/Calf (calved prior to 6/15/17) 2094 Cow/Calf (calved prior to 6/15/17)
CHIANINA (Bulls) GELBVIEH (Bulls)
2060 Jan thru April 2017 2100 Jan thru April 2017
2061 Nov thru Dec 2016 2101 Nov thru Dec 2016
2062 Sept thru Oct 2016 2102 Sept thru Oct 2016
2063 July thru Aug 2016 2103 July thru Aug 2016
2064 May thru June 2016 2104 May thru June 2016
2065 Mar thru April 2016 2105 Mar thru April 2016
2066 Jan thru Feb 2016 2106 Jan thru Feb 2016
CHIANINA (Heifers) GELBVIEH (Heifers)
2067 Jan thru April 2017 2107 Jan thru April 2017
2068 Nov thru Dec 2016 2108 Nov thru Dec 2017
2069 Sept thru Oct 2016 2109 Sept thru Oct 2017
2070 July thru Aug 2016 2110 July thru Aug 2017
2071 May thru June 2016 2111 May thru June 2017
2072 Mar thru April 2016 2112 Mar thru April 2017
2073 Jan thru Feb 2016 2113 Jan thru Feb 2017
2074 July thru Dec 2015 2114 July thru Dec 2017
2075 Cow/Calf (calved prior to 6/15/17) 2115 Cow (calved prior to 6/15/17)
BALANCER (Bulls) HORNED & POLLED HEREFORD (Bulls)
2120 Jan thru April 2017 2160 Jan thru April 2017
2121 Nov thru Dec 2016 2161 Nov thru Dec 2016
2122 Sept thru Oct 2016 2162 Sept thru Oct 2016
2123 July thru Aug 2016 2163 July thru Aug 2016
2124 May thru June 2016 2164 May thru June 2016
2125 Mar thru April 2016 2165 Mar thru April 2016
2126 Jan thru Feb 2016 2166 Jan thru Feb 2016
BALANCER (Heifers) HORNED & POLLED HEREFORD (Heifers)
2127 Jan thru April 2017 2167 Jan thru April 2017
2128 Nov thru Dec 2016 2168 Nov thru Dec 2016
2129 Sept thru Oct 2016 2169 Sept thru Oct 2016
2130 July thru Aug 2016 2170 July thru Aug 2016
2131 May thru June 2016 2171 May thru June 2016
2132 Mar thru April 2016 2172 Mar thru April 2016
2133 Jan thru Feb 2016 2173 Jan thru Feb 2016
2134 July thru Dec 2015 2174 July thru Dec 2015
2135 Cow/Calf (calved prior to 6/15/17) 2175 Cow/Calf (calved prior to 6/15/17)
34 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
LIMOUSIN (Bulls) LIMFLEX (Bulls)
2140 Jan thru April 2017 2180 Jan thru April 2017
2141 Nov thru Dec 2016 2181 Nov thru Dec 2016
2142 Sept thru Oct 2016 2182 Sept thru Oct 2016
2143 July thru Aug 2016 2183 July thru Aug 2016
2144 May thru June 2016 2184 May thru June 2016
2145 Mar thru April 2016 2185 Mar thru April 2016
2146 Jan thru Feb 2016 2186 Jan thru Feb 2016
LIMOUSIN (Heifers) LIMFLEX (Heifers)
2147 Jan thru April 2017 2187 Jan thru April 2017
2148 Nov thru Dec 2016 2188 Nov thru Dec 2016
2149 Sept thru Oct 2016 2189 Sept thru Oct 2016
2150 July thru Aug 2016 2190 July thru Aug 2016
2151 May thru June 2016 2191 May thru June 2016
2152 Mar thru April 2016 2192 Mar thru April 2016
2152 Jan thru Feb 2016 2193 Jan thru Feb 2016
2154 July thru Dec 2015 2194 July thru Dec 2015
2155 Cow/Calf (calved prior to 6/15/17) 2195 Cow/Calf (calved prior to 6/15/17)
MAINE-ANJOU (Bulls) MAINTAINER (Bulls)
2200 Jan thru April 2017 2240 Jan thru April 2017
2201 Nov thru Dec 2016 2241 Nov thru Dec 2016
2202 Sept thru Oct 2016 2242 Sept thru Oct 2016
2203 July thru Aug 2016 2243 July thru Aug 2016
2204 May thru June 2016 2244 May thru June 2016
2205 Mar thru April 2016 2245 Mar thru April 2016
2206 Jan thru Feb 2016 2246 Jan thru Feb 2016
MAINE-ANJOU (Heifers) MAINTAINER (Heifers)
2207 Jan thru April 2017 2247 Jan thru April 2017
2208 Nov thru Dec 2016 2248 Nov thru Dec 2016
2209 Sept thru Oct 2016 2249 Sept thru Oct 2016
2210 July thru Aug 2016 2250 July thru Aug 2016
2211 May thru June 2016 2251 May thru June 2016
2212 Mar thru April 2016 2252 Mar thru April 2016
2213 Jan thru Feb 2016 2253 Jan thru Feb 2016
2214 July thru Dec 2015 2254 July thru Dec 2015
2215 Cow/Calf (calved prior to 6/15/17) 2255 Cow/Calf (calved prior to 6/15/17)
MINIATURE (Bulls) RED ANGUS (Bulls)
2220 Jan thru April 2017 2260 Jan thru April 2017
2221 Nov thru Dec 2016 2261 Nov thru Dec 2016
2222 Sept thru Oct 2016 2262 Sept thru Oct 2016
35 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
2223 July thru Aug 2016 2263 July thru Aug 2016
2224 May thru June 2016 2264 May thru June 2016
2225 Mar thru April 2016 2265 Mar thru April 2016
2226 Jan thru Feb 2016 2266 Jan thru Feb 2016
MINIATURE (Heifers) RED ANGUS (Heifers)
2227 Jan thru April 2017 2267 Jan thru April 2017
2228 Nov thru Dec 2016 2268 Nov thru Dec 2016
2229 Sept thru Oct 2016 2269 Sept thru Oct 2016
2230 July thru Aug 2016 2270 July thru Aug 2016
2231 May thru June 2016 2271 May thru June 2016
2232 Mar thru April 2016 2272 Mar thru April 2016
2233 Jan thru Feb 2016 2273 Jan thru Feb 2016
2234 July thru Dec 2015 2274 July thru Dec 2015
2235 Cow/Calf (calved prior to 6/15/17) 2275 Cow/Calf (calved prior to 6/15/17)
SHORTHORN (Bulls) SHORTHORN PLUS (Bulls)
2280 Jan thru April 2017 2300 Jan thru April 2017
2281 Nov thru Dec 2016 2301 Nov thru Dec 2016
2282 Sept thru Oct 2016 2302 Sept thru Oct 2016
2233 July thru Aug 2016 2303 July thru Aug 2016
2284 May thru June 2016 2304 May thru June 2016
2285 Mar thru April 2016 2305 Mar thru April 2016
2286 Jan thru Feb 2016 2306 Jan thru Feb 2016
SHORTHORN (Heifers) SHORTHORN PLUS (Heifers) 2287 Jan thru April 2017 2310 Jan thru April 2017
2288 Nov thru Dec 2016 2311 Nov thru Dec 2016
2289 Sept thru Oct 2016 2312 Sept thru Oct 2016
2290 July thru Aug 2016 2313 July thru Aug 2016
2291 May thru June 2016 2314 May thru June 2016
2292 Mar thru April 2016 2315 Mar thru April 2016
2293 Jan thru Feb 2016 2316 Jan thru Feb 2016
2294 July thru Dec 2015 2317 July thru Dec 2015
2295 Cow/Calf (calved prior to 6/15/17) 2318 Cow/Calf (calved prior to 6/15/17)
SIMMENTAL (Bulls) FOUNDATION SIMMENTAL (Bulls)
2320 Jan thru April 2017 2340 Jan thru April 2017
2321 Nov thru Dec 2016 2341 Nov thru Dec 2016
2322 Sept thru Oct 2016 2342 Sept thru Oct 2016
2323 July thru Aug 2016 2343 July thru Aug 2016
2324 May thru June 2016 2344 May thru June 2016
36 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
2325 Mar thru April 2016 2345 Mar thru April 2016
2326 Jan thru Feb 2016 2346 Jan thru Feb 2016
SIMMENTAL (Heifers) FOUNDATION SIMMENTAL (Heifers) 2327 Jan thru April 2017 2347 Jan thru April 2017
2328 Nov thru Dec 2016 2348 Nov thru Dec 2016
2329 Sept thru Oct 2016 2349 Sept thru Oct 2016
2330 July thru Aug 2016 2350 July thru Aug 2016
2331 May thru June 2016 2351 May thru June 2016
2332 Mar thru April 2016 2352 Mar thru April 2016
2333 Jan thru Feb 2016 2353 Jan thru Feb 2016
2334 July thru Dec 2015 2354 July thru Dec 2015
2335 Cow/Calf (calved prior to 6/15/17) 2355 Cow/Calf (calved prior to 6/15/17)
AOB (Bulls)
2360 Jan thru April 2017
2361 Nov thru Dec 2016
2362 Sept thru Oct 2016
2363 July thru Aug 2016
2364 May thru June 2016
2365 Mar thru April 2016
2366 Jan thru Feb 2016
AOB (Heifers)
2367 Jan thru April 2017
2368 Nov thru Dec 2016
2369 Sept thru Oct 2016
2370 July thru Aug 2016
2371 May thru June 2016
2372 Mar thru April 2016
2373 Jan thru Feb 2016
2374 July thru Dec 2015
2375 Cow/Calf (calved prior to 6/15/17)
BREEDING BEEF SHOW ORDER
The breeding beef show order will be alphabetical and oldest to youngest each year. Breeds are
as follows: Angus, Braunvieh, Charolais, Composite Charolais, Chianina, Gelbvieh, Balancer,
Horned and Polled Hereford, Limousin, Limflex, Maine Anjou, Maintainers, Miniatures, Red Angus,
Shorthorn, Shorthorn Plus, Simmental, Foundation Simmental, All Other Breeds and Commercial.
37 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
The Nebraska FFA Show offers the previous list of breeds for competition. However, there
must be at least three entries in a specific age or breed to be its own class in the show. Any
breed that does not have three entries will be shown in the Other Breeds category.
COMMERCIAL -- Commercial heifers will be shown separately from registered animals.
Commercial heifers are to be identified by tattoo or EID ear tag and that tattoo or ear tag number
entered online. All animals must be checked in during check-in time.
COMMERCIAL (Heifers)
2300 Jan thru April 2017
2301 Nov thru Dec 2016
2302 Sept thru Oct 2016
2303 July thru Aug 2016
2304 May thru June 2016
2305 Mar thru April 2016
2306 Jan thru Feb 2016
2307 Cow/Calf (calved prior to 6/15/17)
MARKET BEEF
THE NEBRASKA STATE FAIR IS A TERMINAL SHOW FOR THE GRAND AND
RESERVE CHAMPION MARKET BEEF ONLY.
There will not be an option to send any other beef animals to market at the fair.
Grand and Reserve Grand Champion animals will be drug tested and DNA checked after the
selection.
An EID tag and DNA collection must be completed on or before April 15. Completed DNA collector
envelopes must be mailed to AKSARBEN.
The market beef show will consist of four divisions: Market Heifers, Division 1 Market
Steers, Division 2 Market Steers and Division 3 Market Steers. All four division champions will then
compete for champion and reserve champion overall.
In order to simplify market beef substitutions at the Nebraska State Fair, FFA Advisors or
families will send in a bank of market beef nominations by April 15 with DNA samples collected and
EID tag information completed to AKSARBEN, where it will be uploaded into ShoWorks. Any
animal nominated for the State Fair by the April 15 deadline and that is not being shown in 4-H at the
current state fair would be eligible to substitute for market beef entered at registration for the
Nebraska State Fair. If an animal is not listed in ShoWorks because proper validation and nomination
procedures were not followed, this animal would not be eligible to show.
During check-in, all market beef will submit to verification of identification numbers
(approved EID ear tags) and weighing after verification is established at the scales near the Beef Barn
office. Once the official weight has been recorded, no exhibitor shall be allowed to reweigh his/her
animal for change of class determination.
38 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
2400 - Market Beef
Any market beef weighing less than 1000 lbs. shall not be eligible to receive a purple
ribbon.
CARCASS CONTEST
FFA will not offer a carcass contest at the state fair.
FEEDER CALVES
Feeder Calves born between Jan. 1 and May 31 may be shown.
The animal must be identified by an EID ear tag number and either a DNA envelope or a
breeding nomination card. All feeder calves must have an EID tag and breeding nomination card or
DNA envelope submitted by June 15.
During check-in, all feeder calves will submit to verification of identified numbers (approved
EID ear tag) and weighing after verification is established at the scales. Once the official weight has
been recorded, no exhibitors shall be allowed to reweigh his/her animal for change of class
determination.
The Feeder Steers and Heifers will be divided into classes by weight. The number of classes
will be determined by the number of entries. Steers and heifers will show separately. There will be
no breakout by breeds. No bulls may be shown.
Feeder heifers will show before feeders steers.
2700 Feeder Heifer
2800 Feeder Steer
BEEF SHOWMANSHIP
FITTING AND SHOWMANSHIP
Refer to FFA Specific Rules.
2901 Out of School Showmanship
2902 Senior Showmanship
2903 Junior Showmanship
2904 Sophomore Showmanship
2905 Freshman Showmanship
2906 Junior High Showmanship
39 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
LOT 3 - SWINE
A student may show no more than 4 market swine and 2 breeding swine.
SWINE SHOWMANSHIP
Refer to FFA Specific Rules.
MARKET SWINE
All exhibitors MUST be certified for the current PORK QUALITY ASSURANCE
program.
Animals in each market class will be placed on the purple, blue, red, and white ribbon group
basis. Top animals will be placed on a 1-2 basis and top animals will be asked back to compete for
championship.
ALL MARKET SWINE, WHETHER ELIGIBLE OR INELIGIBLE, MUST BE
FORWARDED TO SLAUGHTER AS THIS IS A TERMINAL SHOW.
EACH EXHIBITOR IS ALLOWED ONE PEN FOR 2 ANIMALS. TACK PENS WILL BE
BASED ON AVAILABILITY AND DETERMINED BY THE SWINE SUPERINTENDENT.
In order to simplify swine substitutions at the Nebraska State Fair, exhibitors will send in a bank of
hog nominations due June 15 with an EID tag and DNA collection envelope to their FFA advisor or
extension office who will then submit them to AKSARBEN. Any animal nominated for the State
Fair by the June 15 deadline and that is not being shown in 4-H at the current state fair would be
eligible to substitute for market hog entered at registration for the Nebraska State Fair. If an animal is
not listed in ShoWorks because proper validation and nomination procedures were not followed, this
animal would not be eligible to show.
Any purebred swine not having a pedigree or properly ear notched/tagged will be
ineligible for the purebred show but will be eligible to show in the crossbred market swine
division. The approved entry form shall include name of owner, breed of sire, and dam, sex, and ear
notch number. Only ear notches will be accepted. NO FRESH EAR NOTCHES WILL BE
ALLOWED. ALL EAR NOTCHES MUST BE HEALED AND HAVE NO SCABS.
In compliance with the pseudorabies check-in, all swine will be verified for ear notch or EID
ear tag identification against those listed on the health certificate.
Any market swine weighing less than 230 lbs. will be permitted to show for a ribbon, but
shall not be eligible for cash awards or championship. These animals shall be shipped to market.
There is no upper weight limit for market swine.
All swine shows at the fair will use weigh cards instead the traditional weigh in process. In
using weigh cards, exhibitors and families will be responsible for weighing their own animals,
40 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
whether at home or on the check scales provided at the fair. Exhibitors will then declare the weights
on the cards and turn them in to the FFA swine staff.
FFA will use weigh cards for both market hogs and breeding gilts. FFA weigh cards will be
printed based on the pre-entries and available in the exhibitor packets in the Livestock Check-In
Trailer along with exhibitor gate passes, etc. In the event of a substitution from an animal that was
pre-entered, FFA staff will have substitution cards available in the swine office to be picked up
during the same hours that they are collecting cards on Friday and Saturday.
Weigh cards must be turned in no later than 9:30 a.m. on Saturday of Labor Day weekend. A
certain number of hogs in each class will be weighed on show day to verify weight. FFA will allow a
10 pound variance from the declared weight to the actual weight on show day to account for scale
differences. Any hog that exceeds the 10 pound weight allowance will be lowered a ribbon placing
and ineligible to compete for additional championships.
In both market and breeding shows, purebred classes will be determined by breed, and
crossbred classes will be determined by weight. Once determined, classes will be posted showing
owner of animals and class in which they are to be shown.
No oil or powder of any kind shall be applied to the hogs for exhibiting in the market show or
showmanship.
Four (4) market swine may be shown by each exhibitor; however, a maximum of one will be
marketed on the basis of percent lean meat. Exhibitors should be present at the time of weighing and
marking (tattooing).
Market price for the FFA swine will be based on the grade-yield price being paid by the
packer/buyer on Tuesday after the FFA portion of the State Fair.
PUREBRED MARKET SWINE
REGISTERED--An exhibitor must have proper registration papers and entry form
cleared with the FFA Swine Superintendent before any animal will be shown in the purebred
division. Registration papers, entry forms, and ear notches will be checked and verified at check-in
time. Any animal not meeting purebred requirements will be shown in the crossbred division.
3001 Duroc, Gilt 3301 Yorkshire, Gilts
3002 Duroc, Barrows 3302 Yorkshire, Barrows
3101 Hampshire, Gilts 3401 Poland China, Gilts
3102 Hampshire, Barrows 3402 Poland China, Barrows
3201 Spotted Swine, Gilts 3501 Chester White, Gilts
3202 Spotted Swine, Barrows 3502 Chester White, Barrows
3601 Berkshire, Gilts 3701 Hereford, Gilts
3602 Berkshire, Barrows 3702 Hereford, Barrows
3801 Other Breeds, Gilts
3802 Other Breeds, Barrows
41 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
CROSSBRED MARKET SWINE
3801 Crossbreds, Gilts
3802 Crossbreds, Barrows
FOLLOWING THE SELECTION OF THE CHAMPION AND RESERVE GILT AND
BARROW, A CHAMPION AND RESERVE CHAMPION OVERALL MARKET HOG WILL
BE SELECTED FROM THOSE FOUR ANIMALS.
CARCASS CONTEST
FFA will not offer a carcass contest scan at the State Fair.
Checks will be mailed to your FFA Chapter by Hormel Foods. All complaints, errors or
omissions must be filed to Ryan Hassebrook, FFA Superintendent (402-641-0483 or DJ Mottl,
FFA Swine Show Superintendent (402-366-2275) by September 30 of the same fair year.
BREEDING GILTS
All exhibitors MUST be certified for the current PORK QUALITY ASSURANCE
program.
Animals in each breeding class will be placed on the purple, blue, red, and white ribbon group
basis. Top animals will be placed on a 1-2 basis and top animals will be asked back to compete for
championships.
EACH EXHIBITOR IS ALLOWED ONE (1) PEN FOR EVERY 2 ANIMALS. TACK PENS
WILL BE BASED ON AVAILABILITY AND DETERMINED BY THE SWINE
SUPERINTENDENT.
In order to simplify swine substitutions at the Nebraska State Fair, exhibitors will send in a bank of
breeding gilt nominations due June 15 with an EID tag or ear notches and breeding nomination card
to their FFA advisor or extension office who will then submit them to AKSARBEN. Any animal
nominated for the State Fair by the June 15 deadline and that is not being shown in 4-H at the current
state fair would be eligible to substitute for breeding gilt entered at registration for the Nebraska State
Fair. If an animal is not listed in ShoWorks because proper validation and nomination procedures
were not followed, this animal would not be eligible to show.
Gilts may be nominated as both market and breeding and gilts nominated only in market would also
be eligible to substitute into breeding; however, breeding gilts shown in the Breeding Gilt Show are
not eligible to show in the Market Swine Show and will be identified with a permanent marking to
identify them as a breeding gilts. Breeding gilts are not eligible for slaughter. Any gilt shown in the
Market Gilt Show would also not be eligible for the breeding gilt show.
42 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
Any purebred swine not having a pedigree or properly ear notched/tagged will be
ineligible for the purebred show, but will be eligible to show in the crossbred breeding gilt
division. The approved entry form shall include name of owner, breed of sire, and dam, sex, and ear
notch number. Only ear notches will be accepted. NO FRESH EAR NOTCHES WILL BE
ALLOWED. ALL EAR NOTCHES MUST BE HEALED AND HAVE NO SCABS.
In compliance with the pseudorabies check-in, all swine will be verified for ear notch
identification against those listed on the health certificate.
Like the market hogs, all gilts will be shown by weight as declared by exhibitors on weigh
cards. FFA weigh cards will be printed based on the pre-entries and available in the exhibitor packets
in the Livestock Check-In Trailer along with exhibitor gate passes, etc. In the event of a substitution
from an animal that was pre-entered, FFA staff will have substitution cards available in the swine
office to be picked up during the same hours that they are collecting cards on Friday and Saturday.
Weigh cards must be turned in no later than 9:30 a.m. on Saturday of Labor Day weekend. A
certain number of hogs in each class will be weighed on show day to verify weight. FFA will allow a
10 pound variance from the declared weight to the actual weight on show day to account for scale
differences. Any hog that exceeds the 10 pound weight allowance will be lowered a ribbon placing
and ineligible to compete for additional championships.
Breeding classes will be determined by breed and the number of entries for that breed checked
in for exhibiting. Once determined, classes will be posted showing owner of animals and class in
which they are to be shown.
No oil or powder of any kind shall be applied to the hogs for exhibiting in the market show or
showmanship.
Two (2) breeding gilts may be shown by each exhibitor. Exhibitors should be present at the
time of check-in.
Breeding gilts must be born after January 1st.
PUREBRED BREEDING GILTS
REGISTERED--An exhibitor must have proper registration papers and entry form cleared
with the FFA Swine Superintendent before any animal will be shown in the purebred division.
Registration papers, entry forms, and ear notches/tags will be checked and verified at check-in time.
Any animal not meeting purebred requirements will be shown in the crossbred gilt class.
3601 Purebred Duroc Gilts
3602 Purebred Hampshire Gilts
3603 Purebred Spotted Gilts
3604 Purebred Yorkshire Gilts
3605 Purebred Poland China Gilts
3606 Purebred Chester White Gilts
3607 Purebred Berkshire Gilts
3608 Purebred Hereford Gilts
3609 Purebred Other Gilts
43 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
CROSSBRED BREEDING GILTS
3700 Crossbred Gilts
SWINE SHOWMANSHIP
Refer to general rules for specifics
3801 Out of School Showmanship
3802 Senior Showmanship
3803 Junior Showmanship
3804 Sophomore Showmanship
3805 Freshman Showmanship
3806 Junior High Showmanship
44 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
LOT 4 – SHEEP Exhibitors may show no more than 3 market lambs and 4 breeding sheep. Scrapie tags must be
in all breeding sheep.
In order to simplify sheep substitutions at the Nebraska State Fair, exhibitors will send in a bank of
sheep nominations due June 15 with an EID tag and DNA collection envelope to their FFA advisor or
extension office who will then submit them to AKSARBEN. Any animal nominated for the State
Fair by the June 15 deadline and that is not being shown in 4-H at the current state fair would be
eligible to substitute for market lambs entered at registration for the Nebraska State Fair. If an animal
is not listed in ShoWorks because proper validation and nomination procedures were not followed,
this animal would not be eligible to show.
A ewe lamb may be identified as both a market and breeding ewe and a ewe identified as market with
a DNA envelope but no breeding nomination card would still be eligible for breeding; however, a
ewe lamb shown as a breeding ewe at the State Fair would not be eligible for the market class and
vice versa.
All sheep and meat goats exhibited (except breeding sheep shown “in the wool”) must be shorn to no
greater than 1/8” prior to being examined by a veterinarian. A health paper must be issued within ten
(10) days of exhibition. FFA sheep will be checked for club lamb fungus at time of check in/weigh in.
Any lamb exhibiting symptoms of club lamb fungus will not be allowed to show and will be
quarantined. All market lambs must be completely slick shorn to within ¼ inch PRIOR to arrival at
show. Wool may be left on the legs only below the knees and hocks.
All sheep shows at the fair will use weigh cards instead the traditional weigh in process.
In using weigh cards, exhibitors and families will be responsible for weighing their own
animals, whether at home or on the check scales provided at the fair. Exhibitors will then
declare the weights on the cards and turn them in to the FFA sheep staff.
FFA will use weigh cards for both market lambs and commercial breeding ewe lambs.
FFA weigh cards will be printed based on the pre-entries and available in the exhibitor packets
in the Livestock Check-In Trailer along with exhibitor gate passes, etc. In the event of a
substitution from an animal that was pre-entered, FFA staff will have substitution cards
available at the sheep check in table to be picked up during the same hours that they are
collecting cards on Saturday.
Weigh cards must be turned in no later than 3:30 p.m. on Saturday of Labor Day
weekend. A certain number of lambs in each class will be weighed on show day to verify weight.
FFA will allow a 5 pound variance from the declared weight to the actual weight on show day
to account for scale differences. Any lamb that exceeds the 5 pound weight allowance will be
lowered a ribbon placing and ineligible to compete for additional championships.
BREEDING SHEEP
Animals in each class will be placed on the purple, blue, red, & white ribbon group basis.
Top animals will be placed on a 1-2 basis and top animals will be asked back in order to compete for
championship.
45 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
All yearlings and lamb stock will be subject to mouthing. Lambs must show eight (8) lamb
teeth only. Breeding sheep may show with wool.
REGISTERED SHEEP
An exhibitor must have proper registration papers and entry form cleared with the FFA Sheep
Superintendent before any animal may be shown. Breeding Sheep registration papers, entry forms,
and ear tags will be checked and verified at check-in, in the Sheep Show Area.
Flock: Two registered females and 1 registered Ram. All must be of the same Breed. An exhibitor
may only register four breeding animals for the fair. The flock registration must also be filled out in
ShoWorks but will not count against the exhibitor as one of their four spots.
Dorset Ewes will have a Fall Lamb Class
REGISTERED BREEDING EWES
SOUTHDOWN DORSET
4201 Lamb (dropped after 12/31/16)
4101 Lamb (dropped after 12/31/16) 4202 Fall Lamb (9/01/16- 12/31/16)
4102 Yearling (1/1/16 – 12/31/16) 4203 Yearling (1/1/16 – 08/31/16)
4103 Ewe (dropped before 1/1/16) 4204 Ewe (dropped before 1/1/16)
4104 Flock 4205 Flock
HAMPSHIRE SHROPSHIRE
4301 Lamb (dropped after 12/31/16) 4401 Lamb (dropped after 12/31/16)
4302 Yearling (1/1/16 – 12/31/16) 4402 Yearling (1/1/16 – 12/31/16)
4303 Ewe (dropped before 1/1/16) 4403 Ewe (dropped before 1/1/16)
4304 Flock 4404 Flock
SUFFOLK OTHER BREEDS
4501 Lamb (dropped after 12/31/16) 4601 Lamb (dropped after 12/31/16)
4502 Yearling (1/1/16 – 12/31/16) 4602 Yearling (1/1/16 – 12/31/16)
4503 Ewe (dropped before 1/1/16) 4603 Ewe (dropped before 1/1/16)
4504 Flock 4604 Flock
REGISTERED RAMS
SOUTHDOWN DORSET
4106 Lamb 4206 Lamb
4107 Yearling 4207 Yearling
HAMPSHIRE SHROPSHIRE
4306 Lamb 4406 Lamb
4307 Yearling 4407 Yearling
46 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
SUFFOLK OTHER BREEDS
4506 Lamb 4606 Lamb
4507 Yearling 4607 Yearling
Champion & Reserve Champion Ewe & Ram (each breed)-Rosette.
Champions will not be selected in the other breed class.
COMMERCIAL EWES
Non-registered (commercial) ewes will be shown separately from registered animals.
Commercial ewe lambs will be shown in classes based on weight.
COMMERCIAL BREEDING EWES
4001 Lamb
4002 Yearling
4003 Ewe
4004 Flock
Champion & Reserve Champion Commercial Ewe - Rosette.
COMMERCIAL BREEDING RAMS
4701 Lamb
4702 Yearling
MARKET LAMB SHOW
THE NEBRASKA STATE FAIR IS A TERMINAL SHOW FOR THE GRAND AND
RESERVE CHAMPION MARKET LAMBS ONLY. ALL OTHER MARKET LAMBS CAN
BE SOLD ON A VOLUNTARY BASIS BY FFA MEMBERS.
All sheep and meat goats exhibited (except breeding sheep shown “in the wool”) must be shorn to no
greater than 1/8” prior to being examined by a veterinarian. A health paper must be issued within ten
(10) days of exhibition. FFA sheep will be checked for club lamb fungus at time of check in/weigh in.
Any lamb exhibiting symptoms of club lamb fungus will not be allowed to show and will be
quarantined. All market lambs must be completely slick shorn to within ¼ inch PRIOR to arrival at
show. Wool may be left on the legs only below the knees and hocks.
Market lambs to be exhibited should be weighed prior to bringing to the Fair to be assured of
being within weight requirements, minimum 100 lbs. Once the official weight has been recorded, no
exhibitor shall be allowed to reweigh the animal. Any market lamb weighing less than 100 lbs. will
NOT be eligible for a purple ribbon.
During check-in, all market lambs will be submitted to verification of identification numbers
(approved EID ear tags), age, and weighing after verification is established at the scales. A market
lamb must show eight (8) lamb teeth only. Animals not properly verified will not be eligible to show.
Market classes will be determined after weighing. Once determined, classes will be posted on
the bulletin board showing owner of animals and the class in which they are to be shown.
Late castrate, cryptorchids, or bucky appearing males will not be allowed to show.
47 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
4700 Market Lambs
CARCASS CONTEST
FFA will not offer a scanned carcass contest at the state fair.
SHEEP SHOWMANSHIP
Refer to general rules for specifics
4801 Out of School Showmanship
4802 Senior Showmanship
4803 Junior Showmanship
4804 Sophomore Showmanship
4805 Freshman Showmanship
4806 Junior High Showmanship
48 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
LOT 5-GOATS MARKET GOATS
THE NEBRASKA STATE FAIR IS A TERMINAL SHOW FOR THE GRAND AND
RESERVE CHAMPION MARKET GOATS ONLY. ALL OTHER MARKET GOATS CAN
BE SOLD ON A VOLUNTARY BASIS BY FFA MEMBERS.
Market goats may be doe or wether kids. Short scrotum, cryptorchid, and buck kids are not eligible.
All market goats will be weighed and divided into classes based on total numbers and weight range.
Does and wethers will show together.
During check-in, all market goats will be submitted to verification of identification numbers (EID ear
tags), age, and weighing after verification is established at the scales. Market goats must weigh a
minimum of 50 pounds at check in. Goats under 50 pounds are eligible to show in a pre-market
class. They are not eligible to place purple in the class they show in and therefore are not eligible for
Grand Champion or Reserve Champion. This animal will receive a blue or below.
An FFA member may exhibit three (3) meat goats. Goats are to have milk teeth and there shall be no
evidence of breaking of the skin or eruption of the two permanent front teeth. All sheep and meat
goats exhibited (except breeding sheep shown “in the wool”) must be shorn to no greater than 1/8”
prior to being examined by a veterinarian. FFA goats will be checked fungus at time of check
in/weigh in. Any lamb exhibiting symptoms of club lamb fungus will not be allowed to show and will
be quarantined. A health paper must be issued within ten (10) days of exhibition. Goats must have
horns blunted; however, dehorning is acceptable and preferred. Goats must be shown with smooth
neck chains or smooth collars only.
The FFA division of the Nebraska State Fair is implementing the following rule in an effort to
prevent the spread of fungus. All meat goats must be accompanied by appropriate health certificates.
Health papers must be presented at check in. Initial shearing or close clipping of goats should be
done prior to acquiring health papers to aid in the detection of fungus problems that could cause
disqualification. Health certificates for goats should be issued within 10 days of exhibition. Please
refer to Health Requirements For Animals on page 4 and the State Veterinary documents.
In order to simplify goat substitutions at the Nebraska State Fair, exhibitors will send in a bank of
goat nominations due June 15 with an EID tag and DNA collection envelope to their FFA advisor or
extension office who will then submit them to AKSARBEN. Any animal nominated for the State
Fair by the June 15 deadline and that is not being shown in 4-H at the current state fair would be
eligible to substitute for market goats entered at registration for the Nebraska State Fair. If an animal
is not listed in ShoWorks because proper validation and nomination procedures were not followed,
this animal would not be eligible to show.
A doe kid may be identified as both a market and breeding doe and a doe identified as market with a
DNA envelope but no breeding nomination card would still be eligible for breeding; however, a doe
49 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
kid shown as a breeding doe at the State Fair would not be eligible for the market class and vice
versa.
All goat shows at the fair will use weigh cards instead the traditional weigh in process.
In using weigh cards, exhibitors and families will be responsible for weighing their own
animals, whether at home or on the check scales provided at the fair. Exhibitors will then
declare the weights on the cards and turn them in to the FFA goat staff.
FFA will use weigh cards for both market goats and commercial breeding doe kids. FFA
weigh cards will be printed based on the pre-entries and available in the exhibitor packets in
the Livestock Check-In Trailer along with exhibitor gate passes, etc. In the event of a
substitution from an animal that was pre-entered, FFA staff will have substitution cards
available at the goat check in table to be picked up during the same hours that they are
collecting cards on Saturday.
Weigh cards must be turned in no later than 12:30 p.m. on Saturday of Labor Day
weekend. A certain number of goats in each class will be weighed on show day to verify weight.
FFA will allow a 4 pound variance from the declared weight to the actual weight on show day
to account for scale differences. Any goat that exceeds the 4 pound weight allowance will be
lowered a ribbon placing and ineligible to compete for additional championships.
5100 Market Goats (wethers and does)
CARCASS CONTEST
FFA will not offer a scanned carcass contest at the State Fair.
BREEDING GOATS
Animals in each class will be placed on the purple, blue, red, & white ribbon group basis. Top
animals will be placed on a 1-2 basis and the top animals will be invited back to compete for
championships.
All yearlings and kid stock could be subject to mouthing. Kids must show eight (8) kid teeth only.
REGISTERED Goats
An exhibitor must have proper registration papers and entry form cleared with the FFA Goat
Superintendent before any animal may be shown. Breeding goat registration papers, entry forms, and
ear tags will be checked and verified at check-in.
REGISTERED BREEDING DOES
BOER OTHER BREEDS
5201 Kid 5204 Kid
5202 Yearling 5205 Yearling
5203 Doe 5206 Doe
50 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
Champion & Reserve Champion Doe (each breed)-Rosette.
COMMERCIAL DOES
Non-registered (commercial) Does will be shown separately from registered animals.
An exhibitor must have the entry form cleared with the FFA Goat Superintendent before any animal
may be shown. Commercial doe entry forms and Scrapie ear tags will be checked and verified at
check-in.
COMMERCIAL BREEDING DOES
5301 Kid
5302 Yearling
5303 Does
Champion & Reserve Champion Commercial Does - Rosette.
GOAT SHOWMANSHIP
Refer to general rules.
5401 Out of School Showmanship
5402 Senior Showmanship
5403 Junior Showmanship
5404 Sophomore Showmanship
5405 Freshman Showmanship
5406 Junior High Showmanship
51 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
LOT 6 - AGRICULTURAL MECHANICS
Projects entered shall be the direct result of Agricultural Mechanics instruction in Ag-Ed and
constructed primarily under the supervision of the Ag-Ed instructor. The student entering the project
will have had at least 75% of the construction responsibility for the project.
Each item will be NEATLY tagged using the official FFA Agricultural Mechanics entry card.
The name of the article, classification, the student's name, age, and grade level at time of
construction, name of school, and cost of construction shall be completed at the time of entry. All
other tags and stickers (county level) should be removed. The superintendent shall make final
determination of class for each entry. Household/industrial arts items are not eligible to exhibit, i.e. gun racks, desks, magazine
racks, computer tables, etc. Items that appear to be craft items or industrial technology will not be
permitted to show; show management has decision-making authority in this area. Small items
receiving white ribbons may be removed if space is limited.
Each student may exhibit only 2 items in each class.
The power unit should be included on all power driven equipment during the judging, but
must be adjusted so it will not function thereafter, for the safety of the public.
Must be in and release schedule will be followed as printed in the Nebraska State Fair FFA
Schedule. All exhibits must be removed by Monday, unless prior arrangements have been made.
Exhibits will be evaluated on the following basis:
Construction
- soundness of joints and attachments,
correctness, neatness of cuts .................................................................... 40 points
Utility
- functional design, ease of use,
portability or storability ........................................................................... 40 points
Workmanship
- attention to detail and neatness;
should not effect immediate function ...................................................... 20 points
Division Champion - Trophy & Rosette, Division Reserve Champion - Rosette.
Grand & Reserve Grand Champion Agricultural Mechanics - Trophy (no cash awards).
UTILITY
To include items/tools used in or about the Ag Mechanics facility.
6000 LARGE ITEMS -- (wagons, trailers)
6010 MEDIUM ITEMS -- (carts, welding tables, presses, engine hoists, engine stands)
6020 SMALL ITEMS -- (splash blocks, tool boxes, foot scrapers, stools, car ramps, jack stands)
PRODUCTION
To include items/tools used in crop or livestock production.
6100 LARGE ITEMS -- (loading chute, bale carrier, hog carrier)
6110 MEDIUM ITEMS -- (stock panels, sheep blocker)
6120 SMALL ITEMS -- (post driver, post puller, troughs)
52 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
POWER
To include items/tools which incorporate an electric, hydraulic, and/or fuel motor as a power
source to perform a function. (Equipment must be prepared for display in the power category.)
6200 LARGE ITEMS -- (large sprayers)
6210 MEDIUM ITEMS -- (log splitter)
6220 SMALL ITEMS -- (small sprayer)
HORTICULTURE
To include items/tools used around the lawn/garden for recreation or improvement purposes.
6300 LARGE ITEMS -- (grills, smokers, planters, mini-sprayers)
6310 MEDIUM ITEMS -- (picnic tables, patio seats, patio table)
6320 SMALL ITEMS -- (plant stands, planter boxes, signs)
REFURBISHING
6400 – LARGE REFURBISHING (tractors)
6410 – MEDIUM REFURBISHING (lawn mowers, tillers, power garden items)
6420 – SMALL REFURBISING (antique farm tools)
A restoration of an item/tool which has current benefit to one of the previous categories. The
following must accompany the project: a narrative describing the condition of the item/tool prior to
the repair; steps taken to repair the item; a bill of materials which indicates costs; and attractively
mounted pictures with appropriate captions.
Approximate Award Amounts: Awards same as previous categories based on size
classification as determined by Agricultural Mechanics Superintendent.
DISPLAY BOARDS
A display board shall be items completed by FFA members between the close of the last state
fair and the end of school prior to the current state fair.
Each display board shall be 18" x 24" x 3/8".
Welding boards shall identify: 1) kind of weld; 2) position; 3) amperage; 4) electrode size;
5)AWS number; and 6) thickness or dimension of metal.
A total of 8 welds is recommended for welding boards. They are:
Flat position Butt,( Lap Horiz.)plates flat
Horiz. position Butt, Lap, T-fillet
Vert. position Butt, Lap, T-fillet.
Welds shall be attached so all sides are available for evaluation. Judges will deduct points if welds
are mounted solid. No specific welds are required; however, welds must differ from one another by
at least position, electrode size, AWS number, thickness or dimension of metal, or kind of weld.
6500 -- ARC
6510 -- MIG/TIG
6520 -- Gas Welding/Brazing
6540 -- Electrical - Must include at least 1 switch, 2 types of splices, 1 light fixture or receptacle.
6550 -- PLUMBING - Must use 3 types of pipe, (copper, plastic & steel); soldering, flare fitting,
glued joint, & a steel threaded joint are required.
6560 -- Advanced Electrical or Plumbing -- contains controls, values, timers, motors, etc.
53 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
LOT 7 -- CROPS AND RANGE BOARDS
CROPS
PLACING WILL BE ON THE PURPLE, BLUE, RED, AND WHITE GROUP BASIS.
Grain should be entered in a 4-quart plastic ice cream bucket with lid (or suitable substitute).
Each sample of grain shall be 2 quarts.
The green entry slip must accompany the entry. No grain shall be returned as this is a terminal show.
Grain will be judged on the following factors:
1) Color; 2) Uniformity; 3) Purity (varietal, crops, weeds); 4) Inert Material (stems, chaff,
dirt); 5) Soundness (cracked or broken kernels); 6) Insect Damage; 7) Condition (heat damage,
sprouted kernels).
Each exhibitor must have or had a crop project during the current or preceding year for the
following eligible crops:
Other approved crops, such as barley, rye, popcorn, and dry edible beans, are eligible for
showing provided the crop was appropriately harvested in one of the above years.
Each eligible FFA exhibitor will be permitted to enter one entry per class per student.
Example – Class 6650 – Other, can only have one entry per student. Class 6480 – Shelled
popcorn, can only have one entry per student.
Must be in and release schedule will be followed as printed in the Nebraska State Fair FFA
Schedule. All exhibits must be removed by Monday, unless prior arrangements have been made.
Please note that stalks of corn will be shown without roots.
7100 Oats, Current Year
7200 Winter Wheat, Current Year
7300 Grain Sorghum, Previous Fall
7350 Grain Sorghum (10 heads-10" sheath of Heads), Current Year, Wrapped or Tied
7400 Shelled Yellow Corn, Previous Fall
7401 Shelled White Corn, Previous Fall
7450 Ears of Corn, Yellow (10 ears), Current Year
7451 Ears of Corn, White (10 ears), Current Year
7475 Stalks of Corn, Yellow (3 Stalks- include washed roots), Current Year, No pots or buckets.
7476 Stalks of Corn, White (3 Stalks- include washed roots), Current Year, No pots or buckets.
7480 Shelled Popcorn, Previous Fall
7481 Ears of Popcorn, (10 ears), Current Year
7482 Stalks of Popcorn, (3 Stalks- include washed roots), Current Year, No pots or buckets.
7500 Soybeans, Previous Fall
7550 Soybeans Plants (6 stalks cut at ground level), Current Year, Wrapped or Tied
7600 Small Grains (Sheath of Heads 2" in diameter, 24" stems), Current Year
7625 Alfalfa sheath
7630 Alfalfa, One Slab of Bale
7635 Brome or Native Grass, One Slab of Bale
7650 Other, Wrapped or Tied
54 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
RANGE BOARDS
PLACING WILL BE ON THE PURPLE, BLUE, RED, AND WHITE GROUP BASIS.
All Range Boards shall be 36" x 36" & 3/8" thick. Mounted range plants excluding invader
plants must be on the list of important range plants (Table #1, Range Judging Handbook for
Nebraska, E.C. 1-37-78). Mounted range plants must include roots, stem, and head. The Board shall
not be covered by a plastic material. Range plants may be destroyed at release time.
The exhibit must show the name of the exhibitor, chapter, and each range plant shall be
identified as follows: common name, scientific name, forage value, season of growth, and life span.
Display Boards should have at least 15 range plants. Must be in and release schedule will be followed
as printed in the Nebraska State Fair FFA Schedule.
7700 – Range Board Junior Class (Junior High, Freshmen, Sophomores)
7701 – Range Board Senior Class (Juniors, Seniors, Out of School)
All range boards will be judged using the following rubric:
Upper Points Middle Points Lower Points Meets the size and dimension
requirement as listed in the fair book. The board has a quality finish
(paint or stain) and is not distracting to the mounted plants.
Plants are mounted with small gauge wire through small diameter
drill holes.
Meets the size and dimension requirement as listed in the fair book. The board finish (paint or
stain) is distracting to the mounted plants. Improper mounting which
allows plant to move freely.
Does not meet the size and dimension requirement as listed in
the fair book. The board finish (paint or stain) is distracting to the mounted plants. Plants mounted
with tape, glue, or electric ties.
Labels legible and accurate with Common name, Scientific name,
Origin, Life Form, Life Span, Livestock Forage Value, Growth
Form (if applicable), and Season of Growth (if applicable). Scientific
name only should be italicized.
Labels legible and accurate with Common name, Scientific name,
Origin, Life Form, Life Span, Livestock Forage Value, Growth
Form (if applicable), and Season of Growth (if applicable). Scientific
name not italicized or missing minimal information.
Labels not legible and missing information such as: Common
name, Scientific name, Origin, Life Form, Life Span, Livestock Forage
Value, Growth Form (if applicable), and Season of Growth (if
applicable). Scientific name not italicized and missing major
information.
All 15 of the plants are correctly identified and
labeled.
12-14 of the plants are correctly identified and
labeled.
Less than 12 of the plants are correctly identified and
labeled.
All 15 plants are from the list of plants found in the Nebraska Range Judging Handbook. Over 12 of the plants are native. The plants are a
good representation of the plants as seen in typical range conditions. No plants are introduced annuals. No noxious plants are included on the
range board. The plants have seedhead, stems, leaves, and roots.
All 15 plants are from the list of plants found in the Nebraska Range Judging Handbook. Over 10 of the plants are native. The plants are a
good representation of the plants as seen in typical range conditions.
One plant is an introduced annual.. No noxious plants are included on
the range board. The plants are missing one of the following:
seedhead, stems, leaves, and roots.
All 15 plants are from the list of plants found in the Nebraska Range Judging Handbook. Less than 10 of
the plants are native. The plants are not a good representation of the
plants as seen in typical range conditions. Two are more plants are introduced annuals. Noxious plants are included on the range
board. The plants are missing several of the following: seedhead,
stems, leaves, and roots.
55 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
LOT 8 – HORTICULTURE AND APICULTURE
The quality, condition, safety, and care for all horticulture exhibits are the responsibility of the
exhibitor.
All Exhibits must be a part of the FFA member's SAE.
NO ENTRIES WILL BE ACCEPTED THAT REQUIRE PROCESSING, CANNING,
BAKING., ETC. (EXAMPLES - BREADS, COOKIES, CAKES, ETC, SALSA, JELLY)
No waxing or leaf shine on horticultural entries.
A ribbon will be presented to each eligible entry.
Must be in and release schedule will be followed as printed in the Nebraska State Fair FFA
Schedule.
CLASS 1 -- INDIVIDUAL VEGETABLES & FRUITS
Vegetables & fruits will be judged on the following criteria: 1) Uniformity, 2) maturity, 3)
correct number, 4) preparation, 5) full size, 6) good color, 7) shape, 8) firm, 9) free of damage by
insects, disease or mechanical injury.
FFA Members are eligible to show one (1) exhibit of vegetables and fruits in each sub-class
unless noted otherwise after each class or sub-class.
9001 Apples, red (5 specimens with 1" stem)
9002 Apples, yellow (5 specimens with 1" stem)
9003 Beans, yellow (10 pods w/calyx (stem)
9004 Beans, green (10 pods w/calyx (stem)
9005 Beets (5 specimens w/tops 1/2" long & tap root)
9006 Broccoli (1 specimen over 3" diameter and 6" long stock)
9007 Cabbage (1 specimen, loose leaves removed, at least 2 layers of sound green outer leaves left
on, trim root smooth w/base of leaves)
9008 Carrots (3 specimens, top 1" - 1 1/2" long w/tap root)
9009 Cauliflower (1 specimen, trim leaves even w/top, remove older leaves, cut stem below last
remaining leaf)
9010 Celery (1 specimen with roots and stalks intact)
9011 Cucumbers (3 slicing, leave 1/2" stem)
9012 Cucumbers (5 pickling, leave 1/2" stem)
9013 Eggplant (2 specimens with 1 1/2" stem)
9014 Gourds (5 specimens, mixed types with ½ - 1” stem)
9015 Gourds (3 specimens, single variety with ½ - 1” stem)
9016 Gourd, (Most Unique speciman) (1 gourd per exhibitor, maximum of 5 entries per chapter)
9017 Melon, musk or honeydew, (1 specimens, stems removed)
9018 Okra (5 specimens, ½ - 1” stem)
9019 Onions, yellow (5 specimens, remove only one layer of skin, leave 1" - 1 1/2" stem,
trim root to 3/4")
9020 Onions, red (5 specimens, remove only one layer of skin, leave 1" - 1 1/2" stem,
trim root to 3/4")
9021 Onions, white (5 specimens, remove only one layer of skin, leave 1" - 1 1/2" stem,
trim root to 3/4")
9022 Parsnips (3 specimen, top 1"-1 1/2"long w/tap root)
9023 Pepper, Jalapeno (3 specimens, leave 1/2" - 1" stem)
56 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
9024 Pepper, Hungarian wax pepper (3 specimens, leave 1/2" - 1" stem)
9025 Pepper, other hot peppers, (3 specimens, leave 1/2" - 1" stem)
9026 Pepper, sweet banana peppers, (3 specimens, leave 1/2" - 1" stem)
9027 Pepper, sweet bell peppers, (3 specimens, leave 1/2" - 1" stem)
9028 Potatoes, red (5 specimens, can be washed but do not scrub)
9029 Potatoes, russet (5 specimens, can be washed but do not scrub)
9030 Potatoes, white (5 specimens, can be washed but do not scrub)
9031 Potatoes, other (5 specimens, can be washed but do not scrub
9032 Pumpkin, field type (1 specimen with 1" - 1 1/2" stem)
9033 Pumpkin, largest by weight and an acceptable degree of quality (1 specimen with 1" –
1 1/2" stem)
9034 Pumpkin, small, less than 4" in diameter (3 specimens with 1/2" stem)
9035 Pumpkin, most unusual (5 entries per chapter)
9036 Rhubarb (5 stalks, pulled from ground, with the leaf cut in a 2 inch fan)
9037 Squash, acorn (2 specimens, leave 1" stem)
9038 Squash, zucchini (2 specimens, leave 1" stem)
9039 Squash, yellow, straight neck, (2 specimens, leave 1" stem)
9040 Squash, yellow, crooked neck, (2 specimens, leave 1" stem)
9041 Squash, any other variety (2 specimens, leave 1" stem)
9042 Sweet corn, (3 ears, do not remove husks, trim silk to within 1" of top of husk,
1" - 2" long shank)
9043 Sweet potatoes, red gold (5 specimens, can be washed, do not scrub)
9044 Sweet potatoes, yellow (5 specimens, can be washed, do not scrub)
9045 Tomatoes, red (5 specimens, with 3/4" or larger stem)
9046 Tomatoes, yellow (5 specimens, with 3/4" or larger stem)
9047 Tomatoes, cherry (10 specimens, 1 1/2" or less in diameter, with 1/2" or longer stem)
9048 Tomatoes, Roma (5 specimens, ¾” stem)
9049 Turnips (3 specimens, 1 ½ - 2” top)
9050 Watermelon, oblong type (1 specimen)
9051 Watermelon, round type (1 specimen)
9052 Watermelon, largest by weight and an acceptable degree of quality (1 specimen)
9053 Grapes, white (3 clusters)
9054 Grapes, red (3 clusters)
9055 Grapes, other (3 clusters)
9056 Other vegetables
9057 Other fruits
57 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
CLASS 2 -- HOME GARDEN FOOD BASKET DISPLAY
This exhibit is a quality selection of from 6-10 different kinds and/or varieties of mature
vegetables and/or fruits. Amounts of vegetables & fruits in this exhibit should be such that they can
be arranged in a neat and orderly manner and have good eye appeal. There must be enough of each
vegetable or fruit for the judge to determine quality.
All vegetables and fruits exhibited must be grown by the FFA member as a part of an
approved SAE program. One (1) entry per exhibitor.
Any combination of vegetables and fruits may be used. Those not listed in the catalog may be
included. The exhibit must be a container such as a basket or box. It may be covered with a clear
plastic cover but judges must be able to handle produce to determine quality.
One-third of the judging will be on how well the exhibit is prepared and presented. Packing,
such as paper, straw or cloth, may be used but the vegetables and fruits should be the main attraction
of the exhibit.
9060 Home Garden Food Basket Display (single exhibitor)
9061 Chapter Garden Food Basket Display (needs to be comprised of produce from three members)
CLASS 3 -- HOUSE PLANTS
All plants must be in the possession of the FFA member for at least the immediate past
90 days as a part of an approved SAE or laboratory project.
FFA members may exhibit a total of 10 entries from Class 3 (House Plants) with only 1
(one) entry per sub class. (Examples – only 1 Angelwing Begonia from 9100, only 1 Coleus
from 9103, only 1 African Violet from 9120, etc)
One (1) container per entry, with saucers, if there is a drainage hole in container. NO
WATERING without a saucer.
Judging will be based on color, condition, foliage and/or flower, correct name, culture,
perfection, quality, maturity, and shape.
Plants should be properly prepared. This means the plant should be well-rooted in a container
appropriate for the size of the plant. Plants should not be root-bound or pot-bound.
Plants must be groomed for exhibition. Clean with water only. Plants should be free of
diseases, insect damage, insect free, no wax, or any artificial additives.
Stake a label into soil, listing cultural instructions of how you grew this plant. List water
requirements (such as dry, semi-dry, damp); life requirements (sun, semi-shade, shade); and how this
plant was propagated (bought, stem cutting, lead cutting, seed, etc.) Please make printing 1/4" tall or
taller. Plants without this information will not be evaluated. Label may not be of such a size as to
obscure viewing of plant. ("Water when dry" not explicit enough).
The exhibit is judged on the quality of the plant, not the container. Elaborate and expensive
containers will not be considered in the judging of the plant.
FOLIAGE PLANT
9100 Angelwing Begonia
9101 Arrowhead
9102 Coleus
9103 Complant
9104 Croton
58 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
9105 Dracaena
9106 Dumbcane
9107 Jade
9108 Peace Lily
9109 Pothos
9110 Rubber Plant
9111 Schefflera
9112 Snake Plant
9113 Any Other
POTTED FLOWERING PLANT
9120 African Violet
9121 Begonia
9122 Chrysanthemum
9123 Geranium
9124 Petunia
9125 Any Other
CACTI
9130 Single Cacti
9131 Desert Garden – All Cacti
HANGING BASKETS
9146 Philodendrons (one variety)
9147 Pothos
9148 Swedish Ivy
9149 Several Varieties Combined (3 or more)
9150 Any Other
POTTED PLANTS
9151 Herb
9152 Fairy Garden (12 inches and under)
9153 Fairy Garden (more than 12 inches)
9154 Several Varieties Combined (3 or more)
9155 Unique Potted Plant (any rare or unusual plant, specified variety)
9156 Any Other
9157 Terrarium/Dish Gardens
CLASS 4 -- FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS
Floral arrangements exhibited by FFA members must have been arranged as a part of an FFA
member's SAE or laboratory project. One (1) entry per exhibitor.
The materials may be purchased or grown by the exhibitor.
9200 Floral, fresh cut flowers/foliage in a bud vase
9201 Floral, fresh cut flowers/foliage
9202 Floral, dried flower/foliage
9203 Floral, artificial flowers/foliage
9204 Floral, live plants
59 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
9205 Floral, combination of above
9206 Boutonniere (artificial) (in a see-through container)
9207 Corsage (artificial) (in a see-through container)
9208 Boutonniere (natural) (in a see-through container)
9209 Corsage (natural) (in a see-through container)
9210 Wreaths, 12" or less (artificial)
9211 Wreaths, over 12" (artificial)
9212 Topiary
Theme artistic arrangements, may be fresh, dried, or artificial or any combination thereof;
9213 Go Big Red Arrangement
9214 Christmas Theme Arrangement
9215 Fall Theme Arrangement
9216 State Fair Theme Arrangement
CLASS 5 -- INDIVIDUAL FLOWERS
Flowers will be judged on the following criteria: 1) form, 2) color, 3) size, 4) stem and
foliage, 5) substance, 6) condition & 7) grooming.
All exhibits must be a part of the FFA members SAE.
9330 Asters (3 blooms)
9331 Bachelor Buttons (5 blooms)
9332 Bells of Ireland (3 stems)
9333 Celosia, feather/plume (3 spikes)
9334 Celosia, crested/cockscomb (3 flower heads)
9335 Chrysanthemum (blooms)
9336 Coneflower (3 blooms)
9337 Cosmos (5 blooms)
9338 Dahlia, small (under 5", 3 blooms)
9339 Dahlia, medium (5"-8" in diameter, 1 bloom)
9340 Dahlia, large (over 8" in diameter, 1 bloom)
9341 Daisy (5 blooms)
9342 Dianthus (5 blooms)
9343 Foxglove (5 blooms)
9344 Gaillardia (5 blooms)
9345 Gladiola (3 stems)
9346 Gomphrena (5 blooms)
9347 Marigold, small, single color (under 3" blooms, 5 blooms)
9348 Marigold, small, bi-color (under 3" blooms, 5 blooms)
9349 Marigold, large, single color (over 3" blooms, 3 blooms)
9350 Marigold, large, bi-color (over 3" blooms, 3 blooms)
9351 Mums (5 blooms)
9352 Pansy (5 blooms)
9353 Petunia, single (3 blooms on 1' stems, one variety)
9354 Petunia, double (3 blooms on 1" stems, one variety)
60 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
9355 Petunia, bi-color (3 blooms on 1" stems, one variety)
9356 Rose (l stem, any variety)
9357 Rudbeckia (5 blooms)
9358 Salvia (3 stems)
9359 Sedum (3 blooms)
9360 Snapdragon (3 spikes)
9361 Statice (5 blooms)
9362 Strawflowers (5 blooms)
9363 Sunflowers (3 blooms)
9364 Vinca (5 blooms)
9365 Yarrow (5 blooms)
9366 Zinnia, dwarf (1/2 to 2", 5 blooms)
9367 Zinnia, medium (2 to 4 1/2", 3 blooms)
9368 Zinnia, giant (over 4 1/2", 3 blooms)
9369 Other flower (3 stems)
CLASS 6 -- HERBS
Herbs will be judged in the following criteria: 1) color, 2) size, 3) aroma, 4) form, 5)
condition, 6) grooming, 7) shape, 8) free of insect and disease damage. All herbs will be five stems
freshly cut from the garden and displayed in a vase of water.
9401 Basil
9402 Chive
9403 Dill
9404 Lavender
9405 Mint
9406 Oregano
9407 Parsley
9408 Rosemary
9409 Sage
9410 Thyme
9411 Tarragon
9412 Other Herbs
CLASS 7 – SPECIAL
One exhibit per sub-class per student.
9500 Horticulture board (1 board per exhibitor) examples for display could be a leaf board, bark
board, twig board, horticulture weeds board, etc
9501 Living tree (propagated by student)
9502 Other special exhibit
61 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
APICULTURE Rules
Only one entry will be allowed per exhibitor, in any one class. All entries in this competition must
have been produced in Nebraska by the exhibitor. Entries shall bear no labels or markings. Exhibitors
wishing to identify their entries may send labels in a separate envelope to be attached after judging.
Judges will use score cards in judging. Points will be deducted for entries less than the specified
amounts.
Judging Standards Scorecard EXTRACTED HONEY Points Appearance & uniformity of containers 5
Uniformity & accurate volume of honey 5
Freedom from crystals 10
Freedom from impurities, including froth 20
Uniform honey in all containers of the entry 5
Color 10
Brightness 10
Flavor & aroma 15
Density, no additional points below 16% moisture 20
100
CREAMED HONEY Appearance & uniformity of containers 5
Uniformity & accurate volume of honey 5
Firmness of set (not runny but spreadable) 20
Texture of granulation (smooth & fine) 20
Absence of impurities, including froth 15
Uniform honey in all containers of the entry 10
Color 10
Flavor & aroma (undamaged by heat, smoke, etc. 15
100
CHUNK COMB HONEY Uniformity/cleanliness/general appearance 30
Freedom from impurities & granulation 20
Quality of the liquid honey 25
Quality & neatness of comb honey 20
Uniform & accurate volume of honey _5
100
CUT COMB HONEY IN PLASTIC BOXES Accuracy & neatness of cut edges of comb 20
Uniform depth & filling of honey cells 20
Complete, uniform & clean cappings 20
Quality, quantity & uniformity of honey 20
Freedom from leakage & general appearance of pack 20
100
62 Last Revised Date 5/8/17
SECTION COMB HONEY (wood or round) Suitability, uniformity & cleanliness of sections 15
Completeness, uniformity & cleanliness of cappings 30
Uniform & completely filled honey cells 30
Quality & uniformity of honey 15
Weight & completeness of attachment of comb 10
100
BEEKEEPING STORY Originality 25
Technical merit 25
Educational merit 25
Display Captions 25
100
BEESWAX CANDLES Color between straw & canary yellow 25
Cleanliness (free from honey & impurities) 25
Freedom from cracking, shrinking & marks 25
Neatness of workmanship 25
100
CLASS 8 – EXTRACTED HONEY -Entries shall consist of 4, 1-pound queenline glass jars
CLASS 9 – CREAMED HONEY -Entries shall consist of 4, 1-pound glass jars - cylindrical jars
preferred
CLASS 10 – CHUNK COMB HONEY -Entries shall consist of 4, 1-pound glass jars - cylindrical
jars preferred
CLASS 11 – CUT COMB HONEY -Entries shall consist of 4, 12-ounce combs, in plastic boxes.
CLASS 12 – SECTION COMB HONEY -shall consist of 4 wood sections packaged in cardboard-
cellophane window cartons or 4 round sections with clear covers and labels or 4 half-combed
cassettes
CLASS 13 – BEESWAX CANDLES -Entries shall consist of a pair of beeswax candles that are
either molded or dipped.
CLASS 14 – GIFT BASKET -Entries shall consist of a gift basket of honey and products made
from, or with, products of the hive.
CLASS 15 – BEEKEEPING STORY- Entries shall consist of 10 - 4” X
6” pictures mounted on a poster board with captions that explains
beekeeping or skills of a beekeeper to manage a hive throughout the year